Role of statins in preventing heart disease
- Statins are a class of drugs that are used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. Cholesterol is a fatty substance that is essential for many bodily functions, but too much cholesterol can lead to heart disease and stroke. Statins work by blocking an enzyme in the liver that is responsible for producing cholesterol. This can lower LDL cholesterol levels, which is the type of cholesterol that is most likely to build up in the arteries and form plaques.
- Plaques are hardened deposits of cholesterol and other substances that can narrow or block the arteries. This can reduce blood flow to the heart and other organs, which can lead to heart disease and stroke.
- Statins have been shown to be very effective in preventing heart disease and stroke. A large study published in the journal The Lancet found that statins reduced the risk of heart attack by 25% and the risk of stroke by 21%.
Statins are generally safe and well-tolerated, but they can cause side effects in some people. The most common side effects are mild and go away on their own. However, more serious side effects, such as muscle pain and liver damage, are rare.
If you are considering taking statins, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.
Here are some of the ways that statins can help to prevent heart disease:
- Lower LDL cholesterol levels: Statins can lower LDL cholesterol levels by up to 50%.
- Increase HDL cholesterol levels: Statins can increase HDL cholesterol levels by up to 10%.
- Reduce inflammation: Statins can also reduce inflammation in the arteries. Inflammation can damage the arteries and make them more likely to form plaques.
- Stabilize plaques: Statins can also help to stabilize plaques, making them less likely to rupture and cause a blood clot.
Consult our heart specialists, Dr. Charan Reddy, Consultant Cardiology, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai & Dr. Rajesh Matta, Junior Consultant, Cardiology, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai to know more on the use of statins for a particular heart disease.
Call 022 6280 6280 for an appointment.