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Experts from three health organizations are offering guidance on a way for people with diabetes to lower their risk of cardiovascular disease. Hi, I'm Dr. Cindy Haines, host of HealthDay TV. People with diabetes are at particular risk of developing cardiovascular disease. After the age of 65, more than 80 percent of people with diabetes die of either coronary heart disease or stroke. Aspirin may have a role in helping prevent cardiovascular problems in some people. The American Diabetes Association, the American Heart Association, and the American College of Cardiology Foundation recently teamed up to offer more guidance on aspirin in people with diabetes. For certain adults with diabetes who don't have vascular disease, the statement suggests that low-dose aspirin may be a reasonable tool for prevention. These include people at increased risk of cardiovascular disease who don't have an issue that puts them at higher risk of bleeding. Adults with diabetes who fall into this increased-risk group include most men over 50 and women over 60 with other major risk factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, or unhealthy cholesterol. However, the American Heart Association urges people to talk to their doctor about risks and benefits before beginning aspirin therapy. I'm Dr. Cindy Haines of HealthDay TV, with the news that doctors are reading; health news that matters to you.
