Cholesterol is a waxy water insoluble substance which is produced by animals. Plants do not produce cholesterol. Cholesterol is synthesized mainly in the liver. Cholesterol, being insoluble, is transported in circulation in combination with lipoproteins. The major lipoproteins concerned with the transport of cholesterol in the circulation are LDL and HDL.
High levels of cholesterol in the circulation have been associated with increased risk for coronary heart disease. The cholesterol carried by LDL has been called bad cholesterol as this form of cholesterol leads to increased plaque formation in the coronary arteries.
Statins are drugs employed to reduce the cholesterol levels in the circulation. Statins are compounds which lower cholesterol by blocking the synthesis of cholesterol. The use of statins has been associated with several side effects. Recent evidence is adding one more side effect to the ever growing list. Statins have been shown to worsen the condition of asthma. Statistical evidence shows that asthmatics using statins have to use the inhalers more often than asthmatics who do not use statins.
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