Which specific population is addressed in the USPSTF recommendation for low-dose aspirin use?

The recommendation from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) for low-dose aspirin use specifically targets adults aged 50-59 who have a 10% or greater 10-year cardiovascular risk. This population is identified for low-dose aspirin use primarily due to the balance between the potential benefits and risks of aspirin therapy in primary prevention of cardiovascular events and colorectal cancer.

In this age group, individuals generally have increased risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, and the data support that low-dose aspirin can significantly reduce this risk, thereby preventing events such as heart attacks and strokes. Additionally, the evidence suggests that the benefits of aspirin in this population, particularly in those identified as having a higher risk, outweigh the potential risks, such as gastrointestinal bleeding.

The guidance provided by the USPSTF emphasizes the importance of assessing individual cardiovascular risk before recommending low-dose aspirin to ensure that the action aligns with the patient's overall health profile. Thus, adults aged 50-59 with a significant cardiovascular risk represent a targeted group where the recommendation is both evidence-based and clinically relevant.