Study provides further evidence that statins could prevent blood clots in the veins

Further evidence has been found by researchers from the Universities of Leicester and Bristol to suggest statins could “significantly reduce” the occurrence of blood clotting in certain parts of the body.

The research team analysed several studies previously carried out on the cholesterol-lowering pill and found the drug might have a potential role to play in lowering the recurring risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE).

Speaking about the latest study, Co-investigator Professor Kamlesh Khunti, Professor of Primary Care Diabetes & Vascular Medicine at our University, Director NIHR CLAHRC East Midlands and Co-Director of the Leicester Diabetes Centre, said: “There have been suggestions that statins may have a potential role in preventing VTE, but the evidence has not been consistent.

“We wanted to explore the subject further, by bringing all the studies together in a bid to evaluate the association between statins and reoccurring VTE. It’s important we know as much as we can about this condition, because it’s thought it kills one person from around the world every six seconds.

“Although serious, most blood clots can be completely avoided, with the right care. However, treatment has a considerable economic burden on the UK’s health service as it’s thought to cost around £640 million to manage the condition.”

The research shows accumulating evidence that statins may have a potential role to play in both primary and secondary prevention of VTE. It is hoped the discovery could potentially lead to new guidelines and an expansion of the use of treatment, which is already established in cardiovascular disease prevention.

The research was widely covered by the national media, including by The Times, The Sun and The Express.