Stay young at heart: Many 30-year-olds can benefit from statins
You may think of statins as a medication for older folks. Think again. An updated guideline released by the American College of Cardiology and 10 other organizations says that folks as young as 30 may be candidates for statin therapy.
That's because younger folks with a strong family history of premature heart disease, a high 30-year risk for cardiovascular disease, or an LDL cholesterol of 70-189 mg/dL need immediate intervention to maximize their heart health. The fact that the mean LDL level of young adults in the U.S. is around 105 mg/dL and 6% of young adults have an LDL of 160 mg/dL means that millions of younger folks could benefit from statins.
The guideline also says to get your lipoprotein(a) measured and have a non-contrast coronary artery calcium scan for a more accurate assessment of your risks for heart disease (at any age). I recommend you aim for an LDL of 70 mg/dL or lower if your lipoprotein(a) level is normal or less than 50 mg/dL if your lipoprotein(a) is elevated.
So, get your LDL and lipoprotein(a) levels checked -- and a calcium scan if indicated. Then start restoring/protecting your heart health with lifestyle upgrades and by taking a statin. Tip: I believe statins are appropriate for kids as young as 6 if there's a familial history of very elevated lipoprotein(a) levels.
For more ways to stay heart-healthy and reduce your risk of osteoporotic bone fractures, dementia and some cancers (statins may also do that for some folks), check out the AI coaching program at 4YOUngevity.com.
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.
(c)2026 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2026 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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