Recent research has shed new light on the potential benefits of statins in reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Statins, commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol levels, may offer unexpected protection for brain health.
A large meta-analysis published in February 2025 examined data from 55 observational studies involving over 7 million patients. The findings were striking: people who took statins for at least three years had a 63% lower risk of developing dementia compared to those who didn’t take statins[5].
This isn’t the first study to suggest a link between statin use and reduced dementia risk. Another meta-analysis from Brazil, also published in early 2025, looked at 42 studies with over 6 million participants. It found that statin use was associated with a 21% lower risk of dementia and a 29% lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease specifically[3][7].
Interestingly, the Brazilian study noted that the protective effect of statins appeared to be stronger in younger patients. People under 70 showed a greater reduction in dementia risk compared to those over 70[3][7].
While these results are promising, it’s important to note that the studies were observational, meaning they can’t prove that statins directly cause the reduced risk. Other factors could be at play. Additionally, the exact mechanism by which statins might protect the brain isn’t fully understood[1][3].
Some researchers believe the connection between statins and brain health may be related to their effects on heart health. The American Heart Association has highlighted that heart disease and high blood pressure can reduce blood flow to the brain, potentially impairing cognitive function[5].
Despite the encouraging findings, experts caution against prescribing statins solely for dementia prevention at this time. Dr. Fernando Luiz Westphal Filho, lead author of the Brazilian study, emphasized that more research is needed to fully understand the role of statins in protecting brain health[5].
For those already taking statins to manage cholesterol, these studies offer an encouraging potential side benefit. However, decisions about statin use should always be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, weighing individual risks and benefits.
As the global population ages and dementia rates rise, finding effective ways to prevent cognitive decline becomes increasingly crucial. The potential of statins to play a role in this effort is an exciting area for continued research and could have significant implications for public health in the coming years[1][3][5].
