Cholesterol-lowering drugs reduce the risk of dementia. This conclusion was reached by an international team of researchers from the University of Bristol and Copenhagen University Hospital. The study results were published in the journal Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia (A&D).
Researchers analyzed the effects of statins, ezetimibe, and other drugs aimed at lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, the so-called "bad" cholesterol. They found that high levels of LDL are associated with impaired brain function and an increased risk of cognitive impairment. These hypotheses have been advanced before, but the new study is one of the most convincing in terms of scale and methodology.
The main tool of the analysis was Mendelian randomization, which allows genetic factors to be separated from lifestyle, diet and physical activity. The results showed a clear connection. people with inherited low cholesterol levels had a significantly lower risk of developing dementia.
The authors believe that the cause may be atherosclerosis, a buildup of fat in the walls of blood vessels that disrupts blood flow to the brain and causes tissue damage. Scientists believe that controlling cholesterol levels may be an important preventive measure against neurodegenerative diseases. They plan to conduct long-term clinical trials to confirm the benefits of lipid-lowering drugs for brain health.
Translation by Euromedia24.com
