8 year olds being prescribed statins...

As I have mentioned before I think that the practice of prescribing statins to 8 year old children...and even younger is irresponsible, unethical and downright dangerous to the long term health and well being of the child.  It is bad enough adults being 'forced' to take statins when they often don't need them...but, at least they can say NO if they wish.

But, an 8 year old cannot say no!

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) announced in July this year recommendations that statins should be prescribed to obese children as young as 8 years old.  This is really quite amazing.  There is no evidence to support the use and safety of these drugs in young children.  The recommendation is based on those in position of influence thinking that it is a 'good idea'.  For whom?  The statin manufacturers for sure...but for the children???

A good article has been written on this issue by Stephen Daniells who rightly argues that it is much better to have a fence at the top of a cliff rather than an ambulance at the bottom which is indicative of the type of thinking at the AAP.  To read his article please click here.

I wonder if AAP receives any funding from the Pharmaceutical companies??