00:00A new study is raising questions about how well aspirin prevents a common type of stroke.
00:04The research focused on lacunar ischemic strokes, which occur deep inside the brain.
00:09These strokes are linked to damage in the brain's smallest blood vessels.
00:13Researchers analyzed data from 229 people who had experienced these strokes.
00:19They found stronger links to small vessel damage than plaque buildup in larger arteries.
00:23That matters because aspirin mainly helps prevent blood clots from forming.
00:27About 90% of strokes are ischemic, and roughly one-quarter are lacunar.
00:33Experts say aspirin may provide less protection when small vessel disease is involved.
00:38Still, aspirin remains the best available treatment for preventing another stroke.
00:42Doctors also emphasize aggressive blood pressure control after a stroke.
00:47Researchers are now testing treatments designed to target small vessel disease directly.
00:51But those approaches have not yet been proven more effective than current therapy.
00:55Experts also recommend exercise, a healthy diet, and avoiding smoking.
01:00The findings could help shape more targeted stroke prevention in the future.
01:04Disclosure.
01:05This video contains stock footage and content created or enhanced using AI-assisted tools AI generated.
