New Guidelines For The Use of Cholesterol-Lowering Drugs




WAMU-FM: WAMU: The Diane Rehm Show Podcast show

Summary: <p>Twice as many Americans will be eligible for cholesterol-lowering statin drugs based on new guidelines from two leading cardiovascular associations. Recommendations from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology mark the biggest shift in heart disease prevention in nearly three decades. Statin use in a broader population has been controversial. Some doctors point to their great cholesterol-lowering benefits and their potential to reduce the risk of certain cancers. Others worry about exposing more patients to statins' side effects, including an increased risk of diabetes and muscle pain. Diane and her guests discuss controversial new cholesterol treatment guidelines.</p>