UPDATE - Issue 20 - Winter 2004
Statins & Cancer
A number of our readers may be taking statins to reduce their cholesterol levels. Doubtless others have heard of their efficacy. However, less well known is that they may well be useful in reducing the likelihood of developing prostate cancer.
Results of a fairly small study of 450 men all taking statins, 72 with prostate cancer, 150 with negative biopsies but raised PSA, and 208 with normal PSA readings were presented last June.
The most commonly used brands of statins were Lovastatin, Simvastatin, Fluvastatin and Atorvastatin. The research indicated that those with a cumulative dose of more than 19 grams of any of these products had lower risk of prostate cancer. Those with an average daily dose of more than 40 milligrams were also at a lower risk of an elevated PSA.
Dr Shannon of the Oregon Health and Science University, where the research was carried out, is convinced that further investigation is warranted. We would support this conclusion.