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Cholesterol-lowering drugs fight cancer
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center have found new genetic evidence that supports the link between cholesterol and cancer.
Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that is vital for humans - it is found in all cells of the body. However, too high a concentration of cholesterol can cause diseases such as atherosclerosis, brain diseases, strokes, heart attacks and many other ailments.
Experts suggest that drugs to lower cholesterol levels could help fight cancer. According to scientists, such drugs could help prevent cancer development and modernize existing methods of its treatment.
It turns out that people who take cholesterol-lowering drugs also reduce their risk of developing cancer, while those with high cholesterol are more susceptible to this threat.
"The question of the connection between cholesterol and cancer has been raised repeatedly since the beginning of the 20th century. However, until now it has not been possible to find genetic evidence of a direct connection between cholesterol and malignant tumors," says study co-author Hartmut Land.
One successful cancer treatment could be blocking cholesterol from reaching malignant cells. A gene known as ABCA1 could act as such a blocker. When this gene functions normally, it exhibits antitumor activity, restrains “bad” cholesterol, and prevents tumors from progressing.
Millions of Americans take statins to lower their cholesterol. Clinical trials by scientists show that this class of drugs can be used as anti-cancer drugs. In addition, statins can positively influence the effectiveness of chemotherapy.
However, doctors warn and urge caution, as further research is needed to study the effects of statins. In addition, the exact doses of the drug that can be used for preventive purposes are unknown. The side effects of these drugs cannot be ignored.
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