Low-Dose Aspirin Linked to Reduced Dementia Risk for Some Patients

New Findings Connect Low-Dose Aspirin to Lower Dementia Risk

A recent scientific analysis reveals that low-dose aspirin may be associated with a substantially reduced relative risk of dementia among older adults who possess specific genetic characteristics. Researchers evaluated genetic data from over 13,500 participants in the ASPREE Trial to determine whether genetic differences influence how aspirin affects brain health.

The study demonstrated that individuals within a distinct genetic subgroup who took aspirin saw a 70 percent lower relative risk of developing dementia. However, researchers noted significant safety cautions alongside these potential benefits.

Genetic Scores and Blood Platelet Connections

Scientists focused particularly on genes associated with blood platelet counts. Platelets are components of the blood that help form clots, and prior research has tied platelet activation to cognitive decline.

Participants were assigned genetic scores reflecting their platelet levels. Among those in the highest 20 percent of these genetic scores, only 1 percent of aspirin users developed dementia, compared to 3.3 percent of participants who received a placebo. This discrepancy amounts to approximately a 70 percent decrease in relative risk.

The Safety Catch: Major Bleeding Risks

Despite the positive association regarding cognitive health, the same genetic group experienced notable adverse effects. Specifically, 4.4 percent of aspirin users suffered major bleeding incidents, compared to just 2.1 percent of those given a placebo.

Lead author Dr. Peter Fransquet noted that while previous trials showed overall that aspirin did not prevent dementia when looking at populations as a whole, this targeted genetic subgroup points toward new avenues in platelet biology for future research.

Why More Research Is Required

Experts emphasize that individuals should not begin taking aspirin to prevent dementia without medical consultation, given the documented risks of serious bleeding. The findings must first be confirmed in other populations and tested through clinical trials designed specifically for people with this genetic profile before any medical recommendations can change.

Sources: Science Daily, UA.NEWS, LBC.