There is an NHS website called the National Prescribing Centre.  It has developed some useful tools to guide people making the decision whether to take a preventative treatment or not.

This is particularly relevant for people wondering about taking treatment for their blood pressure or cholesterol levels, for example.

We know that treating blood pressure and cholesterol saves lives overall but what does that mean to me as an individual?

How do I decide if I want to take a long term preventative medication or not?

What is the likely benefit to me and what are the risks?

How necessary is it for me?

Have a look at the following links.  They try to give a visual picture (the smiley faces) of how much benefit a treatment is likely to give an individual, ie you and me.

Aspirin or Warfarin in Atrial Fibrillation