Primary Prevention of Vascular Events in Patients in the Neurology Outpatient Clinic: Based on the 2009 U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) Recommendations on Aspirin Use

Original Article

Journal of Neurosonology 2011;3(1):7-11.

Abstract

Background
The aim of this study was to assess the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and stroke in patients in the neurology outpatient clinic, and apply the 2009 U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations on aspirin use for the primary prevention of vascular events. In addition, the 10-year stroke risk was compared between the Framingham stroke risk (FSR) and the Korean stroke risk prediction (KSRP) model.
Methods
Between April 2009 and June 2009, patients visiting the neurology outpatient clinic for headaches or dizziness were prospectively enrolled. The CVD and stroke risk was assessed using the Framingham scales and the KSRP model.
Results
During the study period, a total of 93 patients were enrolled. Although aspirin was indicated in 43 patients (46%), based on the 2009 USPSTF recommendations, 23 patients (25%) were taking aspirin regularly. Ten patients (11%) were taking aspirin appropriately and 13 patients (14%) were taking aspirin inappropriately. Aspirin was indicated for the primary prevention of coronary heart disease in 89% of men; however, only 20% were taking it regularly. Aspirin was indicated for the primary prevention of stroke in 6% of women; however, 31% were taking it regularly. Aspirin was indicated in 6% of women according to the FSR model and in 33% according to the KSRP model.

Conclusion
s
These results suggest that there may be an opportunity for decreasing vascular events and the risk of maj or bleeds by tailoring patient education on aspirin use.