Scientists in Finland have discovered taking statins can increase the likelihood of getting diabetes by a whopping 46%.
The study was conducted by a team of researchers the University of Eastern Finland and Kuopio University Hospital, on 8,749 volunteers aged between 45 and 73. The study had duration of 6 yearAfter the necessary adjustments had been made for age, body mass index, family history, and lifestyle (smoking, alcohol, diet, exercise etc.) the scientists determined statin users are almost twice as likely to develop diabetes.
Speaking on Wednesday night, a leading cardiologist said the benefits offered by statins had been "grossly exaggerated".
Dr Aseem Malhotra from the UK's Frimley Park Hospital was in agreement.
"This study confirms that statins directly increase the risk of developing diabetes, "Malhotra said.
He then urged doctors to inform their patients of all the risks involved before issuing them with a prescription for statins.
The study was conducted by a team of researchers the University of Eastern Finland and Kuopio University Hospital, on 8,749 volunteers aged between 45 and 73. The study had duration of 6 yearAfter the necessary adjustments had been made for age, body mass index, family history, and lifestyle (smoking, alcohol, diet, exercise etc.) the scientists determined statin users are almost twice as likely to develop diabetes.
Speaking on Wednesday night, a leading cardiologist said the benefits offered by statins had been "grossly exaggerated".
Dr Aseem Malhotra from the UK's Frimley Park Hospital was in agreement.
"This study confirms that statins directly increase the risk of developing diabetes, "Malhotra said.
He then urged doctors to inform their patients of all the risks involved before issuing them with a prescription for statins.