American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

At what age should all diabetics consider starting statin therapy?

1. 30 years old

2. 35 years old

3. 40 years old

4. 45 years old

The correct answer is: 40 years old

Starting statin therapy in people with diabetes is primarily based on age combined with other risk factors for cardiovascular disease. The recommended age to consider initiating statin therapy in all diabetic patients is 40 years old. At this age, many individuals with diabetes are at an increased risk for cardiovascular events due to the persistent effects of hyperglycemia and the development of other related comorbidities, such as hypertension and dyslipidemia. This recommendation aligns with guidelines set by major health organizations, noting that individuals with diabetes aged 40 to 75 should be assessed for statin therapy, regardless of their baseline lipid levels. The rationale behind this age threshold is grounded in evidence showing that statins can significantly reduce cardiovascular risk in this population. Younger individuals, such as those aged 30 or 35, may not face the same level of risk and therefore may not universally benefit from immediate statin therapy. The risk of cardiovascular disease rises with age, particularly after 40, leading to recommendations that prioritize treatment in this group. In patients over 45, statin initiation is indeed even more emphasized, especially if they possess other risk factors, but the age of 40 serves as the universal starting point for all diabetics.