While President Donald Trump has publicly asserted his good health, the use of aspirin as part of his health regimen has come under scrutiny. Dr. Jonathan Reiner, a cardiologist who previously treated former Vice President Dick Cheney, stated during an interview that Trump’s approach to aspirin use “makes no sense.” This comment follows an interview published by the Wall Street Journal, where Trump described taking a higher dose of aspirin to thin his blood.
In the interview, Trump expressed his belief that a lower dosage would lead to “thick blood pouring through my heart.” He stated, “I want nice, thin blood pouring through my heart. Does that make sense?” Reiner countered this statement on CNN’s “The Lead” with host Phil Mattingly, emphasizing that the reasoning behind aspirin use is fundamentally flawed. “That actually makes nonsense,” he remarked. “When we use any kind of anticoagulant, those don’t thin the blood. It makes you less likely to clot.”
Medical Perspectives on Aspirin Use
The American Heart Association (AHA) supports the use of aspirin for preventing blood clots and reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. However, it cautions that for individuals over 70 years old, including Trump, the risks associated with aspirin can outweigh the benefits. The AHA highlighted that older adults might face an increased risk of bleeding when taking aspirin.
At 79 years old, Trump is the oldest individual to assume the presidency. Despite the scrutiny surrounding his health, he has consistently dismissed any concerns. In October 2023, he underwent a CT scan for cardiovascular and abdominal evaluation at Walter Reed Medical Center. Following this, he mentioned having a cognitive test and an MRI scan, which he claimed was “perfect.”
Reflecting on his health assessments, Trump commented to the Wall Street Journal, “I would have been a lot better off if they didn’t it, because the fact that I took it said, ‘Oh gee, is something wrong?’ Well, nothing’s wrong.”
Standard Health Evaluations for Older Adults
Sean Barbabella, Trump’s physician and a Navy Captain, explained that the scans were routine for men in Trump’s age group. He described the evaluations as “standard for an executive physical at President Trump’s age.” This statement reinforces the idea that proactive health assessments are essential for older adults, especially those in high-stress positions.
The debate over Trump’s aspirin regimen highlights broader discussions about health management in aging populations. As medical professionals emphasize the importance of tailored health strategies, the implications of Trump’s regimen could resonate beyond his personal health, influencing public perceptions of medical advice for older adults.
