Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is a major modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease and a key target of preventive treatment. Effective LDL-lowering medications, such as statins, are widely available and recommended for individuals at elevated risk. Despite these guidelines, disparities in care and adherence to therapy persist. Access to and engagement with healthcare services often differ by socioeconomic status (SES), which may influence both the identification of elevated LDL and the likelihood of receiving, or adhering to, the appropriate treatment. Given the increased requirement for lipids management among individuals in lower SES groups, understanding the factors that link statin use to health inequalities may help improve cardiovascular disease prevention and contribute to broader social and economic benefits.
This project aims to investigate how liability to elevated LDL cholesterol correlates with statin use across socioeconomic groups.