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Aspirin's Heart Benefits Clarified Amid AMD Concerns

Aspirin's heart benefits are clear, but AMD concerns linger. New research brings clarity, but more studies are needed.

In the image there is an old man with a cap on his head. He kept goggles and he is smiling. Behind...
In the image there is an old man with a cap on his head. He kept goggles and he is smiling. Behind him there is a blur background.

Aspirin's Heart Benefits Clarified Amid AMD Concerns

Aspirin, commonly used to prevent heart attacks and strokes, has been under scrutiny for its potential impact on age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness in the elderly. A recent review of studies offers clarity on the matter.

Aspirin's benefits for heart health are well-established. Regular users, often older adults with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or hypertension, have a 32% lower stroke rate and are 15% less likely to have a heart attack. However, AMD, which affects 1.8 million people, has been a concern.

Research findings vary. One study found no significant link between aspirin use and progression to late AMD, with heart health benefits outweighing AMD risks. Another study, however, found regular aspirin users were twice as likely to have wet AMD over time, though this association weakened when accounting for cardiovascular disease history. Wet AMD, though less common, can cause rapid vision loss, unlike dry AMD's slow progression.

In conclusion, while some studies suggest a possible link between regular aspirin use and AMD, others find no significant association. Aspirin's heart health benefits remain undisputed. Further research is needed to fully understand any potential AMD risks, especially in light of aspirin's proven cardiovascular benefits.

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