Cholesterol-lowering drugs fight cancer
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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Employees of the medical center at the University of Rochester found new genetic evidence, which confirm the relationship of cholesterol and cancer.
Cholesterol is a substance of fat-like composition, which is vital for a person - 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 it is drugs that, to lower cholesterol, can help fight cancer. According to scientists, with the help of such drugs it will be possible to prevent the development of cancer, and also to modernize the existing methods of its treatment.
It turns out that people taking drugs to reduce cholesterol, at the same time reduce the risk of cancer, and those who have high cholesterol, are more prone to this threat.
"The issue of the connection between cholesterol and cancerous diseases was raised many times in the beginning of the 20th century. However, until now, it has not been possible to find genetic evidence for a direct link between cholesterol and malignant tumors, "says study co-author Hartmut Land.
One of the successful methods of treating cancer can be blocking the access of cholesterol to malignant cells. A gene known as ABCA1 can act as such a blocker. When this gene functions normally, it exhibits antitumor activity, restrains "bad" cholesterol, and also prevents the tumor from progressing.
Millions of Americans are taking cholesterol-lowering statins. Clinical trials of scientists show that a group of these drugs can be used as anticancer drugs. In addition, statins can positively influence the effectiveness of chemotherapy.
However, doctors warn and call for caution, because further research is needed to study the effect of statins. In addition, the exact doses of the drug are not known, which can be used for preventive purposes. Do not ignore the side effects of using these drugs.
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