Statins are a class of medicine that lower cholesterol. Drugs such as simvastatin, rosuvastatin or atorvastatin may be familiar to some. Cholesterol is a key component in causing furring up of the arteries that can lead to heart pains and even heart attacks.

There has been some recent news about who should need a statin, indeed should more of the population take them? What about the side effects?

The answer is to look at the individual patient and assess their individual risk profile. Then decide together if a statin is necessary. There are other measures that reduce your cholesterol risk, such as exercise (increasing the good cholesterol: HDL). Diet may help to a certain extent. Also looking at the whole patient to see if the other risk factors for heart disease can be reduced is very important, such as blood pressure, smoking and weight reduction. See your doctor to find out your risk. Remember prevention is better than cure.