Many prefer lifestyle change to cholesterol drugs
Statins are one of the most prescribed types of prescription drugs. They're used to lower cholesterol. But a recent study shows that many patients - if given the choice - would have preferred to try lifestyle changes before going on the drugs.
"Clinicians don't trust patients to make, in general, effective lifestyle changes and as a result prescribe the tablets," says Mayo Clinic Dr. Victor Montori, one of the study investigators.
Montori says it points to a communication breakdown between doctor and patient. here's his advice to physicians.
"Listen to your patients. Many of them are not interested in the tablets. If there's an opportunity for those who are highly motivated to implement changes as small as they appear, do not waste that opportunity."
Of course, communication is a two-way street. So it's important for you, the patient, to let your doctors know about your preferences.
It's ok to ask questions. Do i really need that drug or that test or is there something else we might try first? If the doctor doesn't like you taking part in your medical care, find another doctor.
"Clinicians don't trust patients to make, in general, effective lifestyle changes and as a result prescribe the tablets," says Mayo Clinic Dr. Victor Montori, one of the study investigators.
Montori says it points to a communication breakdown between doctor and patient. here's his advice to physicians.
"Listen to your patients. Many of them are not interested in the tablets. If there's an opportunity for those who are highly motivated to implement changes as small as they appear, do not waste that opportunity."
Of course, communication is a two-way street. So it's important for you, the patient, to let your doctors know about your preferences.
It's ok to ask questions. Do i really need that drug or that test or is there something else we might try first? If the doctor doesn't like you taking part in your medical care, find another doctor.
There are some people who can't take statins and hormones and maybe it's time our medical community quits trying to make one size fit all. I'm all for preventative medicine within reason, but it seems like this production line medical practice doesn't recognize that humans managed to live well into their senior years without having a dozen pills for everything.
A novel concept that's growing which is implementing sustainable lifestyle changes over pharmaceuticals. Preventative measures instead of making the medical and pharmaceutical industry richer!?!?! I vote for that.
 @alexcrowley Not to mention that statins have disgusting side effects
 @Larry*X*K side effects often worse than what pills are trying to cure. Thanx but no thanx!