There has been a lot of news in the media about the health benefits of aspirin, including reports suggesting that aspirin can be effective in preventing heart attacks, colon cancer, and other types of cancer. A study performed at Johns Hopkins Hospital presented evidence that a daily low dose of aspirin can lower blood clot formation in both men and women. The American Heart Association recommends seeking immediate medical care in the event of a heart attack and chewing 325 milligrams of aspirin as soon as the symptoms of a heart attack are evident. The American Heart Association also advises people who have had a previous heart attack or who have atherosclerosis to take 50-100 milligrams of aspirin per day.

Medical researchers believe aspirin prevents blood platelets from sticking together and forming the kind of blood clots that cause most heart attacks and strokes. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration supports the idea that aspirin can help prevent a heart attack or clot-related stroke by lowering the clotting action of the blood’s platelets. But the FDA also warns people about aspirin’s side effects. Aspirin has been shown to cause such problems as stomach bleeding, hemorrhages in the brain, and kidney failure. Adverse reactions can occur between aspirin and certain prescription drugs, and also between aspirin and some vitamins and herbs. So the FDA advises you to consult with your doctor before deciding whether daily aspirin use is an appropriate course of preventive medical action for you.