I present here an excellent article about the history of how elevated cholesterol is a cause of atherosclerosis, and how statins were identified as a strategic key drug to reduce cholesterol and hence, reduce cardiovascular disease.
The statins are a key part of the cardiologist’s armamentarium to combat coronary artery disease. Several classes of new drugs are emerging to supplement statins in reducing atherosclerosis. These are undergoing clinical trials at present, and will hopefully assist patients in reducing their risk of developing heart attacks.