Statins cut risk of clot-related diseases

Washington, May 17 (ANI): People at risk for clot related diseases may benefit from cholesterol lowering drugs called statins, according to a new University of Connecticut study.

"Previous clinical studies have indicated statins may play a role in lowering the risk of these conditions, but these studies have yielded variable estimates of the effect of statin therapy. In our study, we aimed to analyze and evaluate the effect of these drugs in patients with specific conditions related to vessel blockages," said lead author Vanjul Agarwal, University of Connecticut.

According to study results, statin use benefited patients with all types of VTE, including DVT and PE. Venous thromboembolism (VTE), are clots formed in the deep veins which pose a serious risk for heart attack and stroke, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), are clots in the lower legs, and pulmonary embolism (PE), are clots that form in the primary vessels of the lungs after migrating from other areas of the body, usually the legs, pelvis or, rarely, arms.

Dr. Agarwal said statins are believed to decrease the risk of VTE by reducing inflammation, one of the factors involved in clot formation.

"Statins have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties. Since thrombus formation involves inflammation, statins may reduce venous thrombus formation and thus, lower the odds of developing PE/DVT," she said.

Dr. Agarwal noted future randomized, controlled trials may help determine a course of statin therapy for patients most at risk for developing VTE.

"Patients at high risk for developing PE or DVT may be prescribed statins prophylactically. In these patients, regular use of statins could significantly reduce the incidence of PE and DVT," she said.

The results of the study will be presented at the ATS 2010 International Conference in New Orleans. (ANI)