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

Evidence and guidelines provide conflicting recommendations regarding the use of aspirin for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease, particularly in geriatric patients with diabetes. 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.