Contextualizing National Policies Regulating Access to Low-Dose Aspirin in America and Europe Using the Full Report of a Transatlantic Patient Survey of Aspirin in Preventive Cardiology.

Background Aspirin is widely administered to prevent cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, appropriate use of aspirin depends on patient understanding of its risks, benefits, and indications, especially where aspirin is available over the counter (OTC). Methods and Results We did a survey of patient-reported 10-year cardiovascular risk; aspirin therapy status; form of aspirin access (OTC versus prescription); and knowledge of the risks, benefits, and role of aspirin in CVD prevention.

A survey of general practitioners' knowledge and clinical practice in relation to valvular heart disease.

Introduction: General practice has a key role in diagnosing patients with valvular heart disease (VHD) and referring them to appropriate services.

Methods: An anonymous survey was conducted to assess the knowledge and clinical practice behaviour of Irish general practitioners (GPs) in relation to VHD. In addition to demographic data, the survey captured information in the following domains: knowledge of VHD prevalence, knowledge of contemporary VHD treatments, barriers to diagnosis, and referral patterns.