Statins are commonly used to treat high levels of LDL cholesterol. (LDL cholesterol is the "bad kind" that has a tendency to clog arteries.) A negative side effect of statins is that they have the potential to cause liver damage. A positive side effect is that they may reduce a person's risk of developing colon cancer.
I stress may because there's conflicting research. Studies have shown statins can reduce risk and others have shown they have no impact. A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute provides more information, but still has one foot in each camp.
Results of the Statin Study
After examining data from about 3,600 people, the researchers determined that statins didn't reduce overall cancer risk. However, they noticed that the risk of stage 4 colon cancer was significantly lower for people who used statins. Coincidence? The researchers aren't sure and stressed that more research is needed to confirm the study's findings.
For more information about this topic, please read Statins and Colon Cancer.
Related Research Summaries:- Panel Says Daily Aspirin is a No-No for Colon Cancer Prevention
- Viagra May Shrink Colon Tumors
- Cholesterol-Lowering Drugs Do Double Time
Source: Coogan, P. and Smith, J. "Statin Use and Risk of Colorectal Cancer." Journal of the National Cancer Institute 99.1 (2007): 32-40. Accessed 22 Feb. 2007.
