Statins reduce cardiovascular risk in healthy adults over 70, trial finds

The essentials

An Australian-led clinical trial concludes that statins reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke in otherwise healthy people over 70. Described as a world first, the trial also found a low risk of serious side effects among participants. Statins are already commonly prescribed to some people under 75 who meet certain risk criteria, including diabetes or high cholesterol, to help prevent a major cardiovascular event or the need for heart surgery.

• The trial studied otherwise healthy people over 70.
• Statins reduced the risk of heart attack or stroke.
• The trial found a low risk of serious side effects.
• Statins are already prescribed before 75 based on certain risk factors.