You May Not Need Statins, Even With Elevated ‘Bad’ Cholesterol

Far more important than cholesterol levels is the amount of calcium plaque forming on artery walls, research finds

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For decades, the answer to lowering cholesterol to prevent heart attack or stroke was a statin prescription. Unfortunately, many people who were prescribed statins stop taking them because of side effects, and others question their efficacy. One study even found that doctors worldwide have overprescribed statins, which is potentially harmful.

Is statin therapy suitable for you? A simple test that measures coronary artery calcium could give you a better idea of your risk for a heart attack or stroke.

‘Bad’ Cholesterol May Not Be Bad

The media and the food industry tout the importance of a low-cholesterol diet, and we often hear about “bad” and “good” cholesterol.