Following recent media statements by Minister Frank Vandenbroucke regarding the use of statins, the BSC would like to emphasize the following:
- Statins play a crucial role in primary prevention for high-risk patients and in the secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease.
- Statins use in Belgium is comparable to other countries with a similar healthcare system (ref. Joseph E. Blais et al. Atherosclerosis 2021).
- While we are concerned about potential overuse in low-risk patients, we must not forget the proven benefits for those who truly need them.
We regret that the Minister's language may raise doubts among patients who genuinely benefit from this medication. These concerns have been formally raised in a letter to the Minister.