What is a statin? It is the most powerful lipid-lowering agent yet produced. Its main action is to lower the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol level, thereby reducing the overall cholesterol level in the blood. In this new edition of this popular book, the authors examine the existing and emerging statins and their beneficial effectiveness in reducing serum cholesterol. New chapters cover combination therapy in lipid-lowering, new 'Megatrials' (HPS and PPP) and the PROSPER study. Also presented are the effects of statins on non-vascular conditions such as osteoporosis, cancer, dementia and diabetes.