What lifestyle modification is recommended for individuals at moderate risk of cardiovascular diseases?

The recommendation to consider statins if lifestyle modification is not effective aligns with current clinical guidelines for managing cardiovascular risk in individuals who are identified as having moderate risk. Lifestyle modifications—such as improving diet, increasing physical activity, and managing weight—are foundational strategies for reducing cardiovascular risk. However, for patients at moderate risk who do not achieve adequate improvement in their cardiovascular health parameters through lifestyle changes, it is appropriate to consider pharmacotherapy, specifically statins. Statins are effective in lowering cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease through various mechanisms, including stabilizing plaques in the arteries and reducing inflammation.

This approach is important because it reflects a stepwise management strategy that prioritizes patient safety and efficacy. By first recommending lifestyle changes, healthcare providers encourage patients to adopt healthier habits, which can have a significant positive impact on overall health. If these modifications are insufficient for significantly lowering cardiovascular risk factors, the addition of statin therapy can provide an effective means to reach target cholesterol levels and further reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.

In contrast, starting cholesterol-lowering medications immediately without first attempting lifestyle changes may overlook the potential benefits that such modifications can offer. Ignoring dietary recommendations or increasing NSAID usage would not contribute positively to cardiovascular health management.