A study by researchers at the Philadelphia Veterans Affairs Medical Center, the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Chicago analyzed the social disparities in the treatment of cardiovascular disease since statins were introduced. Their research findings are published in the September issue of Journal of Health and Social Behavior.

The researchers note that high cholesterol used to be a rich man’s disease. They had easier access to high fat foods like red meat. Because wealthier Americans are more likely to be treated with statins, they’re now the least likely to suffer high cholesterol.

It seems that even though statins can help lower elevated cholesterol, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, lower income families haven’t yet been able to take advantage of them like wealthier Americans.

(Image via stock.xchng)

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Are Statins Drugs of the Rich?

The American Academy of Pediatrics, however, believes that the drugs, which are used by millions of adults worldwide, could benefit thousands more children who are already obese, or showing signs of high blood pressure or type II diabetes.

Many UK docs do not agree with this decision and state that this is being used in place of a good diet and exercise. What do you think- would you place your child on a statin or is your child already taking a cholesterol lowering medication?

via BBC 

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Children being prescribed statins in US as young as 8

A new study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine has shown that heart patients who stopped taking these three drugs are three times more likely to die during the next year than patients who followed their prescribed regimen. One out of eight heart-attack patients, who were more likely to be older, single, and less educated, quit taking their meds within a month. Two of the main reasons patients don’t take their medication properly are:

• Cost
• Lack of explanation from their doctors

Even President Bill Clinton was a non-compliant heart patient:

Former President Clinton — a younger, married and well-educated patient — was prescribed a statin for high cholesterol when he left office. But he stopped taking it at some point. At age 58, he had to have quadruple bypass surgery because of severely clogged arteries that doctors said put him in danger of a heart attack.

When you get a new prescription from your doctor, make sure you understand what it’s for and what will happen if you miss a dose or more. Here are some questions to ask your doctor.

The Mercury News, October 2, 2006

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Heart Attack Patients Need Their Medication