Low-Dose Aspirin Linked to Lower Dementia Risk

A Monash University study found the benefit appeared in people with a specific genetic profile, but the findings still need confirmation.

Updated on Nov. 4, 2026 in Alzheimer’s

Low-Dose Aspirin Linked to Lower Dementia Risk

Researchers at Monash University in Australia reported that low-dose aspirin was associated with lower dementia risk among people with a particular genetic profile. The study, published on 25 October 2026 in Alzheimer's & Dementia, also found aspirin users suffered more major bleeding than placebo users.

Why it matters

Aspirin is widely taken for heart health, so a possible link to dementia prevention in specific genetic groups could shape how personalised prevention is approached. The bleeding risk means the findings are unlikely to change recommendations without further evidence.

The analysis drew on more than 13,500 participants in the ASPREE Trial, where dementia rates in the highest-scoring 20% for platelet-count genetics were 1% with aspirin versus 3.3% with placebo. Major bleeding occurred in about 4.4% of aspirin takers compared with 2.1% of placebo takers, and it remains unclear whether the genetic pattern holds beyond this group.

The players

Monash University

An Australian research university whose researchers conducted the study, which analysed data from the ASPREE Trial.

The details

Researchers studied genes associated with platelet counts and assigned participants scores before comparing dementia rates between aspirin and placebo groups. The authors evaluated whether individuals' genetics could explain why aspirin affects dementia risk, with scientists still needing to test the result in other studies.

2019: Two prominent cardiology groups changed aspirin recommendations for older adults.
25 October 2026: The study was published in Alzheimer's & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer's Association.

Health Landscape

The study builds on the ASPREE Trial, a major randomised study of low-dose aspirin in older adults, by examining whether genetic differences shape outcomes. It follows 2019 changes to cardiology aspirin recommendations for older adults, which reflected concerns about bleeding that this new analysis also highlights.

Anyone considering daily aspirin for heart or dementia prevention should discuss the bleeding risk with a doctor before changing their routine. The findings are preliminary, so current aspirin use should not be altered on the basis of this study alone.

The takeaway

Genetics may eventually help identify who benefits most from preventive medicines, but this finding is an early step that needs confirmation before it guides care. Talk with your doctor about whether daily aspirin suits your individual risk of bleeding and heart disease.