Underuse of acetylsalicylic acid in individuals with myocardial infarction, ischemic heart disease or stroke: data from the 1995 population-based Nova Scotia Health Survey.

OBJECTIVE: To determine current patterns of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) use in Nova Scotia for individuals with self-reported myocardial infarction, stroke or ischemic heart disease.
DESIGN: Descriptive, cross-sectional, population-based study using data from the 1995 Nova Scotia Health Survey (NSHS). The NSHS was based on a probability sample and was representative of the Nova Scotia adult population by age, sex and region. Survey data were obtained by standardized home interviews conducted by trained public health nurses.
SETTING: The province of Nova Scotia in 1995. PARTICIPANTS: Survey respondents who reported having a myocardial infarction, stroke or ischemic heart disease were assessed.
RESULTS: Among those who reported a history of myocardial infarction, stroke or ischemic heart disease, 55% (95% CI 47% to 63%), 49% (95% CI 38% to 61%) and 54% (95% CI 39% to 68%), respectively, reported using ASA at the time of the survey. Overall, only 53% of those with cardiovascular disease were using ASA. Exclusion of persons with potential contraindications to ASA did not significantly increase these proportions.
CONCLUSIONS: ASA appears to be underused in those at high risk for future vascular events. Further research is required to investigate determinants of ASA use and to increase appropriate use of ASA.