A meta-analysis of the effects of statins on serum C-reactive protein in Chinese population with coronary heart disease or hyperlipidemia

Abstract

There is little doubt that statins reduce cardiovascular events more than what the lipid lowering effect can account for. Additional mechanisms have been postulated including the anti-inflammatory effects manifested by reduced C-reactive protein (CRP). It is not known, however, whether statins can decrease CRP in Chinese population. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of statins on serum CRP in Chinese patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) or hyperlipidemia. Trials were retrieved through Medline (1980 to May, 2009), bibliographies, and the author’s reference files limited to English-language articles. Data were extracted and meta-analysis was performed. Analysis showed statistically significant reduction in CRP after statin treatment (weighted mean difference [WMD] = −0.73, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [−0.80, −0.66], P < 0.00001) and lower CRP after statin treatment than non-statin routine treatment ([WMD] = −0.52, 95% CI [−0.86, −0.18], P = 0.002). In conclusion, statins significantly reduce serum CRP in Chinese population, which may contribute to statin-induced reduction in the cardiovascular risk in addition to the lipid lowering effect.