The use of over the counter aspirin as prophylaxis for cardiovascular diseases among adult people in Saudi Arabia

Objectives: Our aims to assess knowledge and attitudes regarding over-thecounter (OTC) aspirin use as prophylaxis from cardiovascular disease among adult population in kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to assess the factors associated with aspirin use in adults with cardiovascular disease. Method: This research paper (cross-sectional) was carried out in all Saudi Arabia regions. A selfadministered electronic questionnaire used as a data collection tool. Results: total of 876 participated in this study, 50.6% males and 26.7% between 31-40 years. 35.7% of the participants reported taking OTC medications and 17.2% reported using aspirin. Only 45% of those taking aspirin reported taking it after the prescription. Additionally, we found higher prevalence of using aspirin in hypertensive patients (41.4%vs13.1%, P=0.000), diabetes mellitus (33.3% vs 14.8%, P=0.000), heart condition (55.6% vs 14.0%, P=0.000), hypercholesterolemia (36.6% vs 12.6%, P=0.000). Conclusion: 17.2% of participants used aspirin, 55 % used it with prescription. Aspirin use was high among old people with lower educational levels and those with CVD risk factors.