Heart attacks are a leading cause of death worldwide, including in Singapore. According to the Singapore Myocardial Infarction Registry Annual Report 2022, there were 13,137 cases acute myocardial infarctions (i.e. heart attacks) in 2022. Studies have shown that statins may reduce heart attack risk. In the article, we take a closer look at how much statins can help to reduce heart attack risk, and why screening for artery blockages is still necessary even if you are undergoing statin treatment.
Learn More: Guide To Coronary Artery Disease In Singapore >>
Why Do Heart Attacks Happen?
Heart attacks happen when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked. This can be due to a buildup of fatty deposits called plaques, which can rupture and form a clot, blocking blood flow. The heart muscle begins to die when blood flow to it is reduced or stopped for too long. Common risk factors for heart attacks include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle.
How Do Statins Reduce Risk Of Heart Attacks?
Statins are medications that lower cholesterol levels in the blood. They work by inhibiting an enzyme in the liver that is responsible for producing cholesterol. By lowering LDL cholesterol (often referred to as “bad” cholesterol), statins help reduce the buildup of plaques in the arteries. This, in turn, lowers the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
How Much Do Statins Reduce Heart Attack Risk?
How much do statins reduce heart attack risk? According to SingHealth, studies showed that for every additional 1 mmol/L reduction of LDL, the incidence of strokes/heart attacks is reduced by 22% over a median of 5 years of statin treatment. It was observed that the effect picks up after the first year of treatment, with a consistent 22-24% reduction in events of stroke or heart attack per 1 mmol/L reduction in LDL during each subsequent year of treatment. In addition, statins have been able to reduce the amount of plaque in arteries. When LDL was lowered, particularly to 1.8 mmol/L or less, plaque reduction is more likely to happen.
Statins are most beneficial for individuals at high risk of cardiovascular disease. Moreover, it is important to combine statin therapy with lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and smoking cessation, to achieve the best outcomes.
Screen For Artery Blockage
Artery blockages are often without symptoms until a sudden heart attack or stroke. A person may look and feel fit and healthy, but in fact suffers from artery blockage. While statins can help reduce the risks of heart attacks, the risks nonetheless still remain. This is why regular screening for artery blockage is important, especially for those who have heart attack risk factors:
- High blood cholesterol.
- High blood pressure / hypertension.
- Diabetes.
- BMI of 23kg/m2 and above.
- Current or ex-smoker.
Common tests for heart health includes ECG, Exercise Stress Test, and medical imaging (CT Calcium Score, Coronary CT Angiogram).
Learn More: What Screening For Artery Blockage >>
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This article is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.