An Australian trial found atorvastatin cut first cardiovascular events in adults 70+, but not disability-free survival.
Why it matters: The result could shape primary-prevention prescribing and future guideline reviews for older adults without known cardiovascular disease. It also adds new evidence for clinicians weighing benefit against treatment burden in this age group.
- STAREE tested atorvastatin 40 mg in adults 70 and older with no known cardiovascular disease, diabetes or dementia.
- The trial found about a 30% reduction in first major cardiovascular events.
- The study did not show a statistically significant improvement in disability-free survival.
- More than 15% of participants discontinued treatment, and the study was described as almost exclusively white.
The STAREE trial found atorvastatin lowered first major cardiovascular events in adults 70 and older who had no known cardiovascular disease, diabetes or dementia.
The study was presented at ESC Congress 2026 and published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Monash said the trial enrolled nearly 10,000 participants across Australia, with support from almost 3,400 general practitioners, and that follow-up ended in December 2025.
The published report said atorvastatin cut first major cardiovascular events by about 30%, or one event prevented for every 37 people treated over almost six years. But the study did not find a statistically significant improvement in disability-free survival, and it found no significant difference in dementia rates between the groups.
Researchers said serious side effects were uncommon. More than 15% of participants discontinued the medication, and the trial was described as almost exclusively white, with a mean age around 75, which may limit how broadly the findings apply.
Monash's trial summary is here. An ESC overview of the study's clinical question is here. The result adds to an area where recommendations for primary prevention in older adults have remained unsettled.
By the numbers
- 30% - Reduction in first major cardiovascular events with atorvastatin.
- 37 - Number needed to treat to prevent one major cardiovascular event over almost six years.
- 15%+ - Share of participants who discontinued treatment.
Yes, but: The trial did not significantly improve disability-free survival, and the population was described as almost exclusively white, so applicability to broader older populations is uncertain.
What's next: The findings could be considered in future guideline updates for primary prevention in older adults.