ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - A new public health campaign in Minnesota encourages middle-aged and older people to consider taking a daily dose of aspirin to prevent a heart attack or stroke, even if they have never had cardiovascular problems in the past.

Reports say the "Ask About Aspirin" campaign launched Thursday in an effort to get people ages 50 to 69 to ask their doctor if they should take aspirin.

Many doctors already encourage their patients to take a daily aspirin, but experts say the practice is spotty, especially for one with a clear public health benefit. University of Minnesota researchers have been working with clinics across the state to find out why and to encourage chats about aspirin.

A health official says Minnesota is the first state to launch a statewide aspirin campaign.

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