Aspirin prescribing patterns for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease in geriatric patients with diabetes: Survey of prescribers based on experience

The objective of this study is to identify aspirin-prescribing patterns and determine if it is consistent with the 2013 American Diabetes Association and American Geriatrics Association guidelines. A survey was distributed to attending physicians, fellow physicians, and mid-level practitioners in internal medicine, geriatric, cardiology, and endocrinology clinics in Detroit, MI, USA. Most providers (88%) indicated that they would give aspirin for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease. Of those who chose to give aspirin, all chose to prescribe a dose of 81 mg. Most providers elected to prescribe aspirin based on patient age (86%) and comorbidities (98%). Aspirin is routinely prescribed for geriatric patients with diabetes for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease. The guidelines provide conflicting recommendations; therefore, provider education is needed to guide decision-making in the elderly.
Source: Journal of Clinical Gerontology and Geriatrics - Category: Geriatrics Source Type: research