A study recently published in The Pharmacogenomics Journal, focuses on a knowledge gap, focusing on British South Asian descendent. This is an under represented group in genetic studies with a high likelihood of having cardio-metabolic diseases, a statin indication and risk factor for the early onset of cataracts.

Statins are lipid lowering medications used to lower cholesterol. It is widely prescribed throughout the world. There is a reported associated between cataract risk and using statin. Observational studies have found that statin does have a protective effect on cataracts, while other studies have seen an increase in cataract risk.

Those with South Asian ancestry suffer from caridometabolic disease, with many exploring statin medications. The drug reaction in this population is important to study, helping identify cataract risks in this population.

The recent study carried out used patient data with the project being launched by Queen Mary University in London, recruiting over fifty five thousand South Asian volunteers from Manchester, Bradford and East London. The studies conducted found that a specific genetic variant, leading to increased statin exposure, was links at reducing the risk of cataracts in the younger generation. The variant is found in one in every twelve patients, known to be in higher prevalence in those from European ancestry.

Ray Man, the PA for Mahi Muqit, a leading cataract surgery London doctor, said “This was the first study of this kind to use genetic markers of statin exposure to identify the links between statin and cataracts. It showed that the higher statin exposure, the lower the risk of younger cataract risk. Previous studies found an association between statin and increased cataracts, though this is likely to be due to risk factors. This new study literally refuted all previous claims, suggesting that individuals with genetic variants associated with high statin exposure had the decreased risk of developing cataracts. A very interesting observation for cataract surgeons throughout the world.”

Mahi Muqit is a consultant ophthalmologist, cataract surgeon and expert eye doctor located in London providing first class treatment to patients with retinal problems and cataracts. Backed by years of experience and a proven track record, he remains a leader for cataract surgery London in 2023.

About Us:

Mahi Muqit is a leading consultant ophthalmologist, cataract and vitreoretinal surgeon at two private clinics in London, United Kingdom. He provides patients with superior service and support with a range of surgical procedures to meet their eye sight requirements. He has built up a solid reputation for his eye services in the London area as an expert eye doctor and surgeon offering surgical retina, medical retina and complex cataract surgery. He also offers surgery to patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy. Mahi Muqit is a member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, a member of the British and Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons and the UK and Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons. To find out more, visit https://www.retinasurgeon.uk.com/.