Appropriate Use of Statins in The Elderly Population

Abstract

Dyslipidemia as a risk factor in the elderly and its influence on morbidity and mortality remains a topic, at least, controversial for this population range. Statins, due to their LDL-c reducing effect, can improve other conditions that contribute to the morbidity and mortality of elderly patients. These pleitropic effects are of vital importance in the anti-atherosclerotic effect of statins. Pleitropic properties may also be involved in the non-cardiovascular benefits of statins, recently described. The similarity of pathological processes between middle-aged individuals and elderly people over 65 years of age, together with epidemiological data, confer that high cholesterol levels lead to a high risk in the elderly. Angiographic studies show that, even with advanced circulatory disease, the elderly respond to cholesterol-reducing therapy, with reduced risk. Dyslipidemia plays a key role in the progression of coronary artery disease and is an important predictor of coronary artery disease related events in elderly individuals. Statins are widely accepted as effective therapy for secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. Although studies are limited, such benefits should also be extended to elderly patients. Statins are widely accepted as effective therapy for secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. Although studies are limited, such benefits should also be extended to elderly patients. Taking into account the spectacular growth of the population over 65 years of age, including the increased longevity and knowing that if the current conditions of eating error, physical inactivity and inadequate treatment are modified, statin therapy undoubtedly represents a highly positive influence on the survival of this population group described.