"Age and Cholesterol: When to Start Taking Statins"

Statins can be effective in reducing LDL cholesterol levels and preventing heart attacks and strokes, but there may be confusion about when to start taking them, especially among older adults. The ideal cholesterol levels and whether to rely on lifestyle measures or medication should be personalized. For those over 75 without heart disease, a discussion with a doctor is warranted, and testing for cardiac calcium score may be helpful. Lifestyle steps such as a heart-smart diet, physical activity, quitting smoking, losing weight, and limiting alcohol intake can also help control cholesterol levels.