Stopping statins after 70 may be safer than expected, but there's a catch
A preliminary study found short-term heart risks did not rise much for some older adults who stopped, but longer-term risk may increase.
A major new study suggests many adults aged 70 and older who have never had a heart attack or stroke may be able to stop taking statins without substantially raising their short-term cardiovascular risk. The findings also point to a possible rise in risk over a longer period, so the choice is more complicated than it first appears.
The independent, preliminary research was presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2026 in Chicago, held November 6 through 9. Researchers enrolled nearly 1,900 adults aged 70 and older who were taking statins to prevent a first cardiovascular event, and each had at least two chronic conditions, such as a history of cancer or lung disease.
Participants were split into a group that stopped statins and a group that kept taking them. Researchers tracked health for about two years, with follow-up extending as long as four years, looking at heart attacks, strokes, deaths, quality of life, muscle pain, falls and muscle wasting.
The study comes as questions grow about the benefits of continuing statins in later decades of life. The American Heart Association's 2026 joint guideline on dyslipidemia still recommends preventive treatment for many people with high LDL cholesterol at younger ages.
Key points
- Nearly 1,900 adults aged 70 and older took part, all with at least two chronic conditions.
- Short-term heart attack and stroke risk did not rise substantially for those who stopped, the study suggests.
- A possible increase in risk over a longer period remains a concern.
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Summarized with AI from the sources above and reviewed before publishing.
