Q. If stroke runs in my family, should I take a “baby” aspirin daily?
A. Not necessarily. Only your health care provider can determine if aspirin is right for you. Depending on the kind of stroke you are at risk for, aspirin could help or harm you.
Q. What are the risks of taking aspirin?
A. Some of the risks include possible bleeding in the brain and stomach, and asthma attack in people who are allergic to aspirin.
In addition, people who have asthma, high blood pressure, or liver or kidney disease, or who take blood thinners shouldn’t take aspirin without first discussing this with their health care provider.
Aspirin is a drug, and it has risks and benefits like any other drug. It is not right for everyone.
Founded in 1974, the Association of Black Cardiologists, Inc., (ABC) is a nonprofit organization with an international membership of 1,700 health professionals, lay members of the community (Community Health Advocates), corporate members, and institutional members. The ABC is dedicated to eliminating the disparities related to cardiovascular disease in all people of color. Today, the ABC’s public and private partnerships continue to increase our impact in communities across the nation. For more information, visit abcardio.org.