The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force has released new guidelines for daily aspirin consumption to prevent heart attacks and stroke. They found that lower doses of aspirin seem to be as effective as higher doses and safer since aspirin may increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.

Based on results of an earlier study the task force was able to tailor the recommendations to age and gender. Among men aspirin seems to be more effective in preventing heart attacks. For women aspirin seems to be more effective in preventing stroke. Several guidelines are summarized in the following bullets but it's always best to consult your doctor about medication. Check the source link for additional information.

• Men between the ages of 45 and 79 who are at risk for heart attack should take aspirin if the preventive benefits outweigh the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.

• Women between the ages of 55 and 79 who are at risk for stroke should take aspirin if the preventive benefits outweigh the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.

• These recommendations only apply to adults who have never had a heart attack or stroke.

• If a patient has a low risk of events in the near future, aspirin should not be prescribed.

Source