Does Taking Aspirin Reduce Dementia Risk?
New research suggests that taking aspirin and other common painkillers for a long time might help lower the chances of getting dementia. Scientists looked at how non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which include aspirin and ibuprofen, affect brain health as we age.
A big study followed over 11,000 people for about 14 years. They found that folks who took NSAIDs for more than two years had a 12% lower risk of getting dementia compared to those who didn’t take these medicines[1][3]. The risk of Alzheimer’s disease, a common type of dementia, was even lower – about 21% less likely in long-term NSAID users[3].
But here’s the catch – taking these painkillers for a short time (less than a month) or a medium time (1 to 24 months) actually seemed to slightly increase the risk of dementia[3]. This means that only using NSAIDs for a long time might help protect the brain.
Interestingly, it wasn’t about how much of the medicine people took, but how long they took it. The total amount of NSAIDs didn’t seem to matter as much as the length of time people used them[3].
Scientists think these drugs might help because they fight inflammation in the body, including the brain. Inflammation is thought to play a role in how dementia develops[1].
However, it’s important to remember that this study doesn’t mean everyone should start taking aspirin or other NSAIDs to prevent dementia. These medicines can have side effects, especially when taken for a long time. They can cause problems like stomach bleeding or heart issues[5].
The researchers also found that NSAIDs didn’t seem to help people who have a gene that puts them at higher risk for Alzheimer’s disease[3]. This shows that the potential benefits might not work the same for everyone.
While these findings are exciting, more research is needed to fully understand how NSAIDs might protect against dementia. Scientists are still working to figure out the best ways to prevent and treat this condition.
For now, if you’re thinking about taking NSAIDs regularly, it’s crucial to talk to your doctor first. They can help you weigh the potential benefits against the risks based on your personal health situation.
Remember, there are other ways to keep your brain healthy too. Eating a good diet, exercising regularly, and staying mentally active are all important for brain health as we age.
