By Brian Bienkowski, Environmental Health News
One of the most widely prescribed drugs in the United States may have an extra benefit: protecting people from air pollution.
Statins, prescribed to lower cholesterol and reduce risks of heart attacks and strokes, seem to diminish inflammation that occurs after people breathe airborne particles.
“Health impacts from spikes in particulates in the air are substantial. Statins seem to protect not only lungs from these impacts but the heart, too,” said Dr. Norman Edelman, the American Lung Association’s senior medical advisor.
About one in four Americans over the age of 45 takes statins, including Lipitor, Zocor and other brand names.
About one in four Americans over 45 takes statins. Photo by Tim Boyle/Getty Images
