Cheap, Common Drug Linked To Far Lower Dementia Risk—But Only For Some
Low-dose aspirin was associated with a 70 percent lower risk of dementia among those with a specific platelet count.
A new study from Monash University in Australia has found that low-dose aspirin may reduce the risk of dementia among certain individuals, depending on their genetic makeup. Researchers analyzed data from the ASPREE Trial, which included over 13,500 participants, and discovered that those with specific genetics related to platelet count had a 70% lower risk of dementia when taking aspirin compared to those who took a placebo.
However, the study also revealed that aspirin increased the risk of serious bleeding among those given the medication, with 4.4% of aspirin-takers experiencing major bleeding, compared to 2.1% of placebo-takers. The lead study author, Dr. Peter Fransquet, emphasized that these findings suggest a more personalized approach to dementia prevention, as the benefits and risks need to be carefully weighed for each individual.
Dr. Thomas Holland, a physician scientist at Rush University, noted that while the results are promising, the study does not provide a definitive answer and cautions against starting aspirin use without consulting a healthcare professional.
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