Evidence of heterogeneity in statin-associated type 2 diabetes mellitus risk: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials and observational studies.

ABSTRACT: AIMS:To conduct a meta-analysis of statin-associated type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) risk among randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies (OBSs), excluding studies conducted among secondary prevention populations. METHODS:Studies were identified by searching PubMed (1994-present) and EMBASE (1994-present). Articles had to meet the following criteria: (1) follow-up >one year; (2) >50% of participants free of clinically diagnosed ASCVD; (3) adult participants ?30?years old; (4) reported statin-associated T2D effect estimates; and (5) quantified precision using 95% confidence interval. Data were pooled using random-effects model. RESULTS:We identified 23 studies (35% RCTs) of n?=?4,012,555 participants. OBS participants were on average younger (mean difference?=?6.2?years) and had lower mean low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C, mean difference?=?20.6?mg/dL) and mean fasting plasma glucose (mean difference?=?5.2?mg/dL) compared to RCT participants. There was little evidence for publication bias (P?>?0.1). However, evidence of heterogeneity was observed overall and among OBSs and RCTs (PCochran?=?<0.05). OBS designs, younger baseline mean ages, lower LDL-C concentrations, and high proportions of never or former smokers were significantly associated with increased statin-associated T2D risk. CONCLUSIONS:Potentially elevated statin-associated T2D risk in younger populations with lower LDL-C merits further investigation in light of evolving statin guidelines targeting primary prevention populations.

SUBMITTER: Engeda JC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6544490 | biostudies-literature | 2019 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature