Does Starting Statins or Antihypertensives Affect Lifestyle Behaviors?

You could speculate that telling patients they are at risk for serious illness, and therefore need to take statins or antihypertensive medications, would inspire them to make protective lifestyle changes as well. Or you could speculate that patients conclude that potent medicines obviate the need for lifestyle changes.

In a 15-year Finnish study, researchers found that both responses occur. This cohort involved more than 41,000 people (age, ≥40; 85% women) who were free from cardiovascular disease at baseline. Data were collected from repeated questionnaires and pharmacy claims. Compared with people who never initiated statins or antihypertensives, those who did initiate these treatments were more likely to have increases in body-mass index …