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Eradicating Atherosclerosis: Should We Start Statins at Younger Ages and at Lower LDL-Cs

  • Lipid Abnormalities and Cardiovascular Prevention (ED Michos, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Given the increasing burden of cardiovascular disease, we review the literature for earlier initiation of statin therapy at younger ages and lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels, with the goal of preventing the development of atherosclerosis prior to clinical events.

Recent Findings

There is a rising prevalence of dyslipidemia among younger adults. Although guidelines offer recommendations for adults over 40, there is little guidance for the management of younger adults with moderately elevated LDL-C levels. Earlier and more aggressive statin use may slow progression, or even halt atherosclerosis, and may likewise be beneficial and cost-effective on a population level.

Summary

Further research is needed to define the exact age and LDL-C level at which to start statin therapy. Until then, more detailed risk stratification with lab testing and imaging should be used to identify younger adults at the highest risk.

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Funding

Dr. Kelsey is supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) training grant 5T32HL069749-18.

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Correspondence to Thomas O’Toole.

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Conflict of Interest

Dr. Shah reports research grants from Amgen, Inc.; Janssen Pharmaceuticals; NIH; He also reports consulting fees from Amgen, Inc.; Novartis; Esperion. Dr. Pagidipati reports research grants from Amgen, Inc.; AstraZeneca; Baseline Study LLC; Boehringer Ingleheim; Duke Clinical Research Institute; Eggland’s Best; Eli Lilly & Company; Novartis Pharmaceuticals; Novo Nordisk Pharmaceutical Company; Sanofi-S.A.; Verily Sciences Research Company. She also reports consulting fees from AstraZeneca; Boehringer Ingleheim; Eli Lilly & Company; Novo Nordisk Pharmaceutical Company; Novartis. Drs. O’Toole and McGarrah have no disclosures to report.

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O’Toole, T., Kelsey, M.D., Shah, N.P. et al. Eradicating Atherosclerosis: Should We Start Statins at Younger Ages and at Lower LDL-Cs. Curr Cardiol Rep 24, 1397–1406 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11886-022-01760-y

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