Cholesterol-lowering drugs could reduce stroke risk by third

New research from France has suggested that statins, the cholesterol-lowering drugs, could help reduce the risk of stroke by a third among people aged over 70.

In the study, 7,484 men and women with an average age of 74 were examined. They were followed for nine years, with 2,408 of them taking statins. During this time, 732 of them had a heart attack or stroke, meaning that the risk of stroke had been slashed by a third.

Medical experts are now suggesting that the drugs should be offered to all individuals in this age group, even if they are fit and have not previously had heart problems. Around five million Brits take the drug currently, even though last year NHS watchdog Nice stated that 40 per cent of the population should be on them.

Statins are currently not prescribed to over-70s, as there is little evidence as to whether they are effective or safe.

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