Background: Aspirin (ASA) therapy is of proven value in the acute treatment of myocardial infarction (MI) and in secondary prevention for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Daily ASA is now recommended for all persons with diabetes and is suggested for persons at risk for CVD.
Objective: To describe the beliefs and practices regarding regular use of ASA in the general community. Methods: In 1999 a random sample of Montanans aged >45 was surveyed (N=1,197) by telephone regarding current ASA use (daily/every other day), health care provider (HCP) recommendations, and ASA intolerance as well as their CVD history (MI, angina or stroke) and history of CVD risk factors (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, overweight [BMI >27.0]). Results: The table displays the percent of respondents reporting "yes" to key questions by selected groups.
|
|
Persons with chronic diseases should take ASA (%) |
HCP recommended ASA (%) |
Currently use ASA (%) |
ASA intolerant (%) |
|
CVD history (n=156) |
65 |
67 |
62 |
17 |
|
Diabetes (n=83) |
59 |
47 |
41 |
22 |
|
CVD risk factors, no CVD (n=800) |
60 |
23 |
28 |
15 |
|
No CVD or risk factors (n=241) |
61 |
15 |
20 |
12 |
|
All respondents (1,197) |
61 |
27 |
31 |
15 |
Conclusions: The majority of individuals with a history of CVD in the general community reported ASA use. Interpretation of these data is limited because we do not have information on use of other types of anticoagulant therapy. Opportunities exist to increase ASA use among persons with diabetes and others at risk for CVD.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to: Identify the proportion of persons in Montana who are aware of aspirin recommendations. 2. Identify the proportion of persons in Montana who currently take aspirin. 3. Discuss where opportunities exist to increase aspirin use in Montana
Keywords: Diabetes,
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.