
Daily aspirin myth debunked as new science flags risks for healthy adults
Longstanding NHS guidance that daily low-dose aspirin protects the heart is being re-evaluated. In people with no prior cardiovascular disease, the benefits are limited and risks—such as stomach bleeding and brain haemorrhages—are significant; this has led to updated NHS guidance since 2021 and a 2023 recommendation to avoid routinely offering aspirin to prevent a first heart attack. The NHS still recommends daily aspirin for those who have had a heart attack or stroke, but many healthy patients remain unaware of risks. Doctors urge discussions with GPs about individual risk and highlight alternatives (blood pressure control, statins, exercise) as safer, more effective preventive measures. Some patients report severe side effects, underscoring why broad daily aspirin use should be avoided unless clinically indicated.



