What your participation means to global health
Government and health authorities make recommendations based on scientific evidence that proves the benefit of a particular therapy outweighs the risks.
All medications have side effects and low-dose aspirin is no exception. Aspirin is often prescribed for ‘secondary prevention’ in people who have had a heart attack or stroke because research demonstrates that in this instance, the benefit of preventing another heart attack or stroke clearly outweighs risks, such as bleeding. Some health agencies are reluctant to recommend healthy older people take low-dose aspirin for ‘primary prevention’ (to prevent a first heart attack or stroke), not because the risks are higher – people taking aspirin for secondary prevention are also at risk of side-effects – but because there is a lack of evidence about aspirin’s overall benefit in older, healthy people.
There are indications that aspirin may prevent the onset of a heart attack, stroke, dementia, depression and some cancers, however these potential benefits have never been proven or weighed against the risks in healthy older people. Until the results of large clinical aspirin trials such as ASPREE are known, government health authorities have little choice but to maintain the status quo.
Only through the generous support of our 19.114 ASPREE participants, will the world know in 2018 whether aspirin prolongs good health in later years.
- If aspirin is shown to be of overall benefit, millions of healthy older people around the world will be advised to take aspirin.
- If aspirin is shown not to be of benefit, then many older people will stop taking an unnecessary medication.
- Your participation contributes to better health for future generations.
For this we thank you.
“Often you read about tests and research and you wonder ‘who answers all these questions?’ This is my chance to help. Why not? I’m also an optimist. It’s a five year trial and I’m already 81.
I’ve never been involved in studies before and I don’t know anyone who has. But it is no trouble to participate – just take a tablet a day and have a few health checks.” (Elizabeth, Australian participant, 2013)
“Another aspect of the Update was the way in which all of us, I feel sure, felt proud of what you are doing for the scientific and general image of Australia. It is surely accurate to say that this well designed study is of singular medical significance worldwide……. The careful control matching and double (even triple) blinding are admirable.
In my research experience the requirement for any valid research is the tremendous challenge of true and complete elimination of bias. It can be very difficult indeed…..The design and management of ASPREE fills me with confidence and appreciation. I hope I am still breathing and with enough cognitive function left, in 5 to 7 years time, to learn the result of its important question. The other sub-studies (a couple of which I am a participant) are also of close interest.” (John, Australian participant, 2014)
More testimonials to come……
The ASPREE Study Protocol
A study protocol is the ‘bible’ for a clinical trial which must be approved by a Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC) before a study can legally commence in Australia. The ASPREE Study Protocol documents the background to the study, the trial design, objectives, hypothesis, endpoints, patient well-being, study visit measurements, analysis and adherence to ethical regulations. ASPREE Protocol AUS Version# 9 Nov 2014
The ASPREE study Brochure
Download the ASPREE Information brochure or ring 1800 728 745 to order a copy.
Editions of ASPREE Participant Newsletters ‘The Tablet’
This biannual publication helps keep participants and the general community up to date on all things ASPREE – from study progress through to news stories, reminders and snippets. Submissions (limited to 100 words is ideal) and/or story suggestions are welcome! Send through your suggestions to aspree@monash.edu
