Lower cholesterol after starting statins lowers heart risks study finds

Lowering low-density lipoprotein and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol after starting statins reduces the risk of major cardiovascular events, PLOS Medicine reported. Researchers analysed health records to examine the health benefits of reaching recommended cholesterol targets for primary disease prevention. [1]

The multiregional new-user cohort study tracked data from more than 185,000 human statin users. The participant group included patients across Hong Kong, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom who started statin therapy to prevent initial cardiovascular issues. [1]

According to PLOS Medicine, patients who achieved lower concentrations of low-density lipoprotein, commonly known as LDL, and non-high-density lipoprotein, known as non-HDL, experienced lower overall rates of major heart events and death. The findings provide clearer context regarding the ongoing uncertainty around targeted cholesterol guidelines. [1]

The research highlights the importance of routine medication adherence for long-term health management. As FTMQ Health reported earlier, failing to follow prescribed cardiovascular treatment schedules, such as skipping daily doses of blood pressure medication, similarly reduces protection against strokes and heart attacks. [1][3]