What is the primary role of statins in cardiac care?

The primary role of statins in cardiac care is to lower LDL cholesterol. Statins are a class of medications that inhibit the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which plays a central role in the biosynthesis of cholesterol in the liver. By reducing the levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, statins help to decrease the risk of atherosclerosis, heart attack, and stroke. Lowering LDL cholesterol is particularly important because high levels of this type of cholesterol are linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.

In addition to lowering LDL cholesterol, statins may also have beneficial effects on the endothelium, promote plaque stability, and have anti-inflammatory properties. While there are other medications that specifically target HDL (high-density lipoprotein) or triglyceride levels, statins are primarily recognized for their effectiveness in lowering LDL cholesterol and reducing the incidence of major cardiovascular events.