Your health Statins: the truth from those who take them

RISK

“I had a heart attack out of the blue a year ago as I walked into my office. I’d just been to the gym. I was sweating and felt lightheaded, but thought it was hunger at first.

“Then a severe pain started – like an electric shock in my chest – and a huge sense of anxiety washed over me. I panicked and called the ambulance myself.

“I’d had a heart attack due to a blocked artery. When they tested my cholesterol is was high at 7.6, so as well as fitting a stent to open the artery, they put me on a high dose of statins. Within three months my cholesterol was down to 2.1.

“I’m very happy to take them and haven’t had any side effects – I’m thrilled they’ve brought my cholesterol down so much so quickly, and am relying on them to make sure I don’t have another heart attack. I live for my family and I want to be here to enjoy my grandchildren.”

As research out this week claims thousands are dying because they’re afraid to take the controversial pills, two readers tell how sticking with statins is saving their lives.

Although prescribed for heart health, some studies have suggested that taking statins could give additional, unexpected benefits. Lower risk of dementia Several studies have suggested that statins may cut the chances of developing Alzheimer’s disease. One in journal Neurology found taking them for at least two years reduced the risk by 15 per cent for women and by 12 per cent for men. Reduced risk of cancer death

A study found statins could cut the chances of dying from breast cancer by 43 per cent, prostate by 47 per cent, bowel by 30 per cent and lung by 22 per cent.

Better eye health Research has found a link between statin use and a decreased risk of eye cataracts.

Lower risk of rheumatoid arthritis Studies have found patients who take statins significantly lower the chances of developing this debilitating condition.