Statins are one of the most crucial drugs that are prescribed to heart patients. It is a class of medications that lowers cholesterol levels. According to experts, the drug plays a crucial role in preventing atherosclerosis and decreasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Beyond their cholesterol-lowering effects, emerging research suggests statins may possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, contributing to their overall cardiovascular benefits. Additionally, investigations into potential applications for neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, highlight the multifaceted nature of statins’ pharmacological actions.
However, a new study has revealed that the usage of statins among eligible patients is low. The study conducted by the researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and the University of Pittsburgh has also revealed that overall statin use for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease has increased over time.
The findings of the study were published in Annals of Internal Medicine journal on Monday.
Researchers maintain that despite the expanded guidelines by the American Academy of Cardiology/American Heart Association, statin usage leveled off between 2013 and 2018 with only 35 percent of eligible people taking these medications.
The study also found that people who require statins the most are not using them. These people include diabetics, patients with very high cholesterol, or those with 10-year risk of cardiovascular disease above 20 percent.
The researchers also emphasised on the need to increase access, especially among high-risk patients.
According to reports, some experts claim that misinformation around statins has led to the decreased usage of the essential drug. Although some of the rare side effects of statins include muscle pain, weakness, and joint pain, health experts maintain that these effects can often be corrected by switching a particular statin to another drug in its class.
What is the status in India?
India continues to be a major burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). However, studies suggest the reported use of statin therapy in India is very low. According to a 2014 study published in Indian Heart Journal, there are numerous reasons for low use of statins.
“…poor understanding by the public and medical practitioners on the long natural history of ASCVD and the proven efficacy of statins, cost of statins, exaggerated concerns of safety, undue reliance on aspirin, penchant for surgical and invasive options, and the complexity and multiplicity of cholesterol guidelines and dosage of statin therapy,” the study revealed.
Another 2022 study revealed that there is an urgent need to scale up statin use in LMICs to achieve WHO targets. “Policies and programmes that facilitate implementation of statins into primary health systems in these settings should be investigated for the future,” the study published in The Lancet Global Health Journal revealed.
Rohit Malhotra is a medical expert and health journalist who offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being. His articles aim to help readers lead healthier lives.
