Vlasko
#1
Imaging studies and other tests provide evidence that statins promote atherosclerotic plaque calcification.
However, statins may also promote a more uniform distribution of the calcified plaque, thus lowering the risk of cardiac events.
As noted in the paper linked below:
“Most studies using imaging modalities and/or biomarkers have demonstrated that statins promote atherosclerotic plaque calcification in coronary and peripheral arteries in the long term, especially at high doses. Although such an effect seems detrimental at first sight, it has been associated with higher plaque stability and less adverse cardiovascular events. Presumably, statins promote favorable arterial and atherosclerotic calcification, which do not expand atherosclerotic lesions and attenuate their vulnerability.”
This suggests that statins actually promote premature but more uniform aging of the cardiovascular system. Reducing the risk of sudden cardiac events may come at a cost of accelerated aging.
3 Likes
RobTuck
#2
I wonder if there is a threshold below which statin would not exhibit this effect.
If you don’t take them your own body will naturally promote premature aging of your cardiovascular system 
