Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) is well known as a painkiller; it has an anti-inflammatory action and can be used for headache and muscle pain.

Low dose aspirin is taken by many on a daily basis to prevent blood clots from forming in the blood vessels and to prevent cells in the blood (platelets) from sticking together and clotting an artery.

The recommended dose of 75mg has beneficial effects but like so many things come with a risk.  There is a small increase in the risk of bleeding in the stomach and brain for some people, although this might only affect one in a thousand people.

There is some evidence that taking aspirin may also protect against cancer.  It is thought that aspirin may reduce the risk of a person developing cancer and also stop cancers from spreading around the body.

Latest studies carried out at the University of Western Australia found that taking a regular dose of aspirin reduced the risk of depression in the elderly.  Trials found that when taken regularly the risk of depression reduced by around 40%.

It appears to work by lowering levels of homocysteine, an acid in the blood thought to increase the chances of heart attacks and strokes when the levels are too high.  Scientists think that excess homocysteine may also be a factor in poor mental health.

Depression in the elderly is very high with causes such as the death of a partner or friends and coping with chronic illness being contributing factors.  Women tend to suffer from depression more than men.  The study found that men with excessive homocysteine levels were 60% more likely to suffer from depression.

The evidence in favour of aspirin is very good, however if you wish to take it on a regular basis you should consult your doctor first.