Could Cholesterol Medicines Be the New Weapon Against Cancer? | Consumer Health Information Corporation

Could Cholesterol Medicines Be the New Weapon Against Cancer?

Hye Kim, PharmD Candidate 2006
Bernard J. Dunn School of Pharmacy, Shenandoah University
Prepared during Consumer Health Information Corporation Clerkship
McLean, VA

Cancer is one of the most feared diseases in the U.S. In 2005, it is expected that there will be over one million new cases in the United States. And more than half a million people may die from cancer. 1 out of every 4 deaths in this country is due to cancer. The most common cancers in men are prostate, lung, and colorectal (or bowel) cancer. The most common cancers in women are breast, lung, and colorectal cancer.

But now there may be some new weapons in the fight against cancer. Recent studies have shown that medicines called statins used to lower cholesterol may actually reduce the risk of certain cancers. Some examples of statins include Lipitor, Zocor, Pravachol, Crestor, etc.

Statins and colorectal cancer
Cholesterol levels may be linked to the risk of colorectal cancer. Statins may be able to lower the risk of colorectal cancer. An article published in the New England Journal of Medicine in May 2005 studied the use of Zocor and Pravachol. Patients taking these medicines for more than 5 years had a lower risk for colorectal cancer.

What about breast and prostate cancer?
Researchers are not just focusing on one type of cancer. They are looking for benefits in different cancers: breast cancer and prostate cancer. It is not known why or how, but research shows that statins may lower the risk of breast cancer. One study showed a 30% decrease in the risk of breast cancer in patients who took statins for more than 5 years.

For men, one study showed that people who took statins lowered their risk for prostate cancer by 65%. Again, it is not known exactly how statins help to decrease the risk and more studies are needed.

What you can do
Hopefully, in the near future, we may be able to reduce the number of cancer cases with more research on how statins can help. Since more studies are needed, the best policy for now is to screen for cancer and detect it early. Cancers are usually more successfully treated if they are found early.

Breast Cancer: Regular breast exams start at the age of 20. Talk to your doctor about which exams you need to have.
Prostate Cancer: Screening for prostate cancer starts at the age of 50. Your doctor may recommend screening earlier if you are at higher risk.
Colorectal Cancer: Both men and women should begin testing for colorectal cancer at age 50. There are different exams to consider. Talk with your doctor about what is best for you.

Statins show promise for lowering the risk of cancer and may be a new weapon in the fight against cancer. New research can give many people hope for the future for healthier and longer lives.