Cholesterol busters may lower risk of cataracts

A breakthrough study has found that adults who take pills used to lower cholesterol are 45 percent less likely to develop the most common type of age-related cataracts.

The study examined 1300 individuals over 5 years. After this time, 210 of the participants developed a common nuclear cataract which affect the eye lens nucleus.

The study found the cataract rate in statin users was 12% compared with 17% in non-users. Statin is a pill used to lower cholesterol.

After factoring in the participants age, the researchers concluded that statin users were about 45 percent less likely to develop nuclear cataracts.

The results were a surprise because of earlier concerns that some cholesterol medication might increase the risk of cataracts, a common clouding-over of the lens of the eye that can lead to poor vision and blindness.

Statins have also been reported to have antioxidant benefits and to attack inflammation.

Remember: If you are taking cholesterol lowering drugs be sure to keep your doctor informed about any changes you make.

Source: JAMA. June, 2006 http://jama.ama-assn.org/content/vol295/issue23/index.dtl