Researchers analysis of prior research involving more than 270,000 patients with high LDL levels using statins to lower bad cholesterol levels have likely had the risks of dying decreased. Researchers say that their findings support more aggressively treating patients with high LDL levels with statins, and patients should feel safe about it, going on to add statins are the safest drugs to reduce risks of strokes, heart attacks, and even death in a wide range of patients; these patients can experience greater health benefits from statins and some of the newer cholesterol drugs.
Analysis of 34 prior studies was conducted involving upwards of 270,000 participants, and found statins were more likely to decrease risk of death when LDL levels were 100 mg/dl or higher whether or not used with other LDL lowering drugs.
According to researchers lives of an additional 4.3 in 1000 patients were saved every year when being treated with statins in LDL cholesterol lowering therapy, with the greatest benefit and highest reduction in death rates observed in those with the highest LDL cholesterol levels.
LDL cholesterol causes plaque and fat to build up within arteries which can increase risks for strokes and heart attacks. Optimal levels of LDL are considered to be 100 mg/dl or lower, as it is less likely to develop cholesterol plaques with age, readings above that are considered unhealthy.
High LDL levels can be reduced through improved diet, exercise, and use of medications such as statins. Patients with cardiovascular disease or genetics causing high cholesterol may benefit from addition of statin therapy, as the study shows they can be effective in preventing strokes and heart attacks even when LDL levels are low. 12.4% of adults within the USA have levels above 160 mg/dl, researchers say that statins save thousands of these lives annually.
