Hold onto your aspirin bottles—what you’ve heard about this common pill might just be outdated.
Dr. Jeremy London, a prominent heart surgeon, has ignited a firestorm on TikTok, challenging the long-standing belief that everyone should take daily aspirin.
For decades, this little pill was prescribed as a preventive measure against heart disease, preventing clots that could block arteries and cause heart attacks or strokes.
But in 2019, the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association took a dramatic turn and dropped their broad aspirin recommendations.
Why the sudden change? A 2019 Harvard study revealed that aspirin didn’t actually cut down heart attacks or related incidents compared to a placebo.
Shockingly, those taking aspirin were twice as likely to experience gastrointestinal bleeding.
But that’s not all—further research unveiled that long-term use of low-dose aspirin could increase the risk of anemia by 20% and deplete iron levels in older adults.
Despite this eye-opening data, breaking the aspirin habit isn’t easy.
 In 2021, nearly one-third of adults aged 60 and up without heart disease were still taking aspirin, according to the Annals of Internal Medicine.
So, who really should be on the daily aspirin regimen?
Dr. London, the TikTok star with a flair for revealing medical truths, breaks it down.
 He says there are two groups who might benefit from daily aspirin.
 First, those who’ve already suffered a heart attack or stroke—provided they don’t have bleeding issues—should stick to 75 to 100 mg daily.
Second, people aged 40 to 70 who haven’t had a heart event but are at high risk for cardiovascular problems may also be candidates for aspirin therapy.
However, for those 70 and older, the risks of gastrointestinal distress and bleeding could outweigh the benefits.
This advice is echoed by Dr. Roger Blumenthal of the American Heart Association, who emphasizes that daily aspirin is no longer a blanket recommendation.
Only those with a high risk of cardiovascular events should consider it.
But hold on—there’s a surprising twist in the aspirin saga.
New research from Mass General Brigham suggests that taking two aspirin a week could actually reduce the risk of colorectal cancer for those with unhealthy lifestyles.
This research points out that aspirin might boost the immune system’s ability to target cancer cells, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy gut bacteria.
The aspirin debate is far from over, and both Dr. Blumenthal and Dr. London advise anyone interested or concerned about aspirin therapy to consult with their healthcare providers.
It’s clear that the best way to guard against vascular disease and heart failure remains a healthy lifestyle—regular exercise and a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole foods.
The bottom line: while aspirin has its place, it’s not a cure-all.
The once-universal recommendation for daily aspirin has been reassessed, and its benefits are now more nuanced.
Stay informed and consult with your doctor before making any changes to your medication routine.
 In the ever-evolving world of medicine, keeping up with the latest research and recommendations is crucial.
Whether you continue with aspirin or not, a balanced lifestyle is your best defense.
So, if you’re still reaching for that aspirin bottle, it might be time to reassess.
Don’t let old habits dictate your health—get the latest insights and make decisions that align with today’s medical standards.
Remember, when it comes to your health, knowledge and personalized advice are your greatest allies.