Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), may have more side effects than previously thought.

A new study, published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine, suggests that people who regularly took acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin is one brand name) for 15 years were more likely to develop age-related blindness.

“Regular use is associated with increased risk of incident neovascular AMD, independent of a history of cardiovascular disease and smoking,” the study’s authors wrote.

Before you stop taking acetylsalicylic acid, however, keep in mind that many healthy people take it to help prevent hearts attacks, strokes and even cancer.

The researchers also say that the decision to stop taking acetylsalicylic acid needs to be individualized. "Currently, there is insufficient evidence to recommend changing clinical practice, except perhaps in patients with strong risk factors for neovascular AMD," the study's authors wrote.

What do you think? Do the risks outweigh the benefits? Do you take a daily acetylsalicylic acid pill?

-Katharine Watts, Associate Web Editor

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