New research indicates long-term use of statins may reduce the risk of brain and spine tumors, called glioma.
(Wikipedia: a glioma is a type of tumor that starts in the brain or spine. It is called a glioma because it arises from glial cells. The most common site of gliomas is the brain. Gliomas make up ~30% of all brain and central nervous system tumors and 80% of all malignant brain tumors.)
A case-control (observational, not random control trial) study of Danes showed that the risk of glioma was lower among long-term statin users as compared to non-users. Long-term user was defined in this study as 5+ years. The clearest correlation was for men aged 60+. Women under 60 years was lower, but not for women 60+.
The study was supported by the Danish Cancer Society and University of Southern Denmark. The authors were independent from the funding sources.
