For many years, physicians have recommended a daily aspirin to certain patients who have or are at risk of cardiovascular disease. Diabetes significantly increases the risk of developing cardiovascular conditions such as heart attack and stroke. Research conducted since the early 1970s have consistently shown that taking a daily aspirin can improve blood flow to the heart and reduce the risk of coronary ailments.

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends low-dose aspirin therapy for patients with diabetes who are at high risk for cardiovascular ailments. This includes patients who have had a previous cardiovascular condition or meet other risk criteria. However, some patients with diabetes should not take a daily aspirin, according to the ADA. These include people under age 21 and those who have any of the following conditions:

• Aspirin allergy
• Tendency to bleed
• Recent bleeding from the digestive tract
• Diabetic nephropathy (kidney disease)
• Active liver disease
• Uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Asthma

Any patient with diabetes considering daily aspirin therapy should first consult a physician. The physician will also suggest the appropriate dosage for a patient. This usually ranges between 75 and 325 milligrams daily.

Patients with aspirin sensitivities may use substitutes, such as antiplatelet medications, to obtain benefits similar to those provided by daily aspirin therapy.