English summary: USE OF CHOLESTEROL LOWERING DRUGS IN FINRISK 2007

The aim of this study was to assess the changes in serum cholesterol levels among the general population and in different patient groups in Finland. We also evaluated the use of cholesterol lowering drugs in specific patient groups and in primary prevention. The data are based on the National FINRISK Studies carried out in men and women aged 25-64 years in six different areas every five years since 1982. In the latest survey in 2007 persons aged 65-74 years were also included. Among patients with ischaemic heart disease the serum cholesterol level had decreased by 32%. In the total population, the corresponding decrease was 15%. Among participants aged 35-74 years 20% of men and 17% of women were using cholesterol lowering drugs. Seventy percent of patients with coronary heart disease were using statins. One quarter of statin users had a total cholesterol higher than 5 mmol/l. In primary prevention 67% of men and 33% of women had an absolute risk of coronary heart disease or stroke during the next 10 years of 10% or more.