Yes, lifestyle choices such as smoking can still heighten the risk of blood clots despite the use of aspirin. Aspirin is a blood-thinning medication that works by reducing the formation of blood clots in the body [1]. However, it does not eliminate the risk entirely.
Smoking is a significant risk factor for blood clots. The chemicals in tobacco can damage the lining of blood vessels, causing them to narrow and increase the risk of clot formation [2]. This risk is exacerbated by the use of oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, and other factors such as obesity, pregnancy, and a sedentary lifestyle [3].
While aspirin can help reduce the risk of blood clots, it cannot eliminate the increased risk associated with smoking. Therefore, quitting smoking is the most effective way to reduce the risk of blood clots and other smoking-related health issues [4].
In summary, lifestyle choices such as smoking can still heighten the risk of blood clots despite the use of aspirin. Aspirin can help reduce the risk of blood clots, but it does not eliminate it entirely. Smoking is a significant risk factor for blood clots, and quitting smoking is the most effective way to reduce this risk.
Sources:
1. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Aspirin: Does it have heart benefits? <https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-disease/in-depth/aspirin/art-20046501>.
2. American Heart Association. (2021). How Smoking and Tobacco Use Affect You. <https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-lifestyle/quit-smoking-tobacco/how-smoking-and-tobacco-use-affect-you>.
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Venous Thromboembolism (Blood Clots). <https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/dvt/facts.html>.
4. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2021). Aspirin. <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/aspirin>.