Experts revise guidelines on daily aspirin for heart (USA)

"Amid the continuing debate over who should pop an aspirin each day to fight heart disease, and at what dose, U.S. experts have revised guidelines stating that lower doses appear to be at least as effective as higher doses and safer at preventing heart attack and stroke. The issue of dosage has long been discussed because aspirin carries with it an increased risk for gastrointestinal bleeding, especially when taken in combination with the clot-dissolving drug clopidogrel (Plavix). The new U.S. Preventive Services Task Force guidelines are tailored to match age and gender. Among the recommendations: Men aged 45 to 79 should take aspirin if the chances of preventing a heart attack outweigh the chances of gastrointestinal bleeding. Women aged 55 to 79 should take the drug if the chances of reducing ischemic stroke outweigh the risks of GI bleeding" - HealthDay