Low-density lipoprotein « Dr Alf's Blog



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This is an excellent and important read from The Conversation. It argues that newspapers misreporting on the ongoing debate is likely to lead to more deaths from cardiovascular disease.

Source: BMJ vs The Lancet: there are no winners in the ‘statins war’

Whilst, I endorse the conclusion that statins can save lives. I do not accept the evidence for statins to be universally prescribed for people over a certain age. Also I believe that borderline cases should be treated by a change in lifestyle first before necessarily prescribing statins for life with their associated side affects. Also there are a number of herbal solutions which need to be considered too.

Thoughts?



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This is a must-read from the WEF. It reports that millions of people around the world take statins to reduce their risk of heart attack and stroke but new research suggests they may be wasting their time. An international team of scientists has found no link between high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and heart disease in a study of people aged 60 and over.

Source: Should you take statins? The latest cholesterol debate explained | World Economic Forum

This is an important research finding. Not so long ago the UK health authorities were recommending statins for everybody over a certain age.

No doubt the public will be confused by the competing research evidence. If you’re worried consult your doctor.

Thoughts?