Lowering cholesterol in old age

Abstract

In arguing for a conservative view of the need for and wisdom of lowering plasma cholesterol, or low density lipoprotein cholesterol, in advanced age, three considerations are taken into account. These are: plasma cholesterol concentrations decrease spontaneously with age, as does their association with vascular disease; the absence of data to demonstrate the benefits of lowering cholesterol levels in the elderly; and conflicting priorities (including the cost of treatment) in the care of the elderly. Patients with known coronary heart disease who have received lipid-lowering treatment for some years could continue to be treated with these drugs beyond the age of 75, though even this decision should depend on clinical judgement.