The Evolution of Aspirin: Historical Insights and Modern Guidelines

This chapter examines the history of aspirin, from its 19th-century discovery to its complications identified in the 1940s regarding bleeding risks. It discusses aspirin's mechanisms of action and the evolving recommendations for its use in cardiovascular disease prevention, particularly the contrasting advice for primary versus secondary prevention. The complexities of aspirin treatment in older populations and the implications of recent studies on its effectiveness compared to newer antiplatelet drugs are also explored.