The Role of Statins in Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases in Real Clinical Practice

Abstract

Objective: To discuss the role of statins, also as a part of a combined lipid-lowering therapy, in reduction of the risk of atherosclerosis and associated cardiovascular diseases and complications. Key Points. Main risk factors of atherosclerosis and associated cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are arterial hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, diabetes mellitus, etc. Prevention of cardiovascular events by modifying cardiovascular risk factors is a focal point in the recent new recommendations developed by the European Society of Cardiology for prevention of CVDs in real clinical practice. Statin-based lipid-lowering therapy with mandatory addition of Ezetemibe and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors, where needed, is one of the most efficient and safe approaches both in primary and secondary prevention. Conclusion. Early statins initiation and more intense LDL cholesterol lowering depending on the cardiovascular risk severity allow not only preventing cardiovascular complications, but also increasing life expectancy. Keywords: cardiovascular diseases, LDL cholesterol, atherosclerosis, statins, Rosuvastatin, prevention of cardiovascular complications.