Adjunctive Role of Statin Therapy on Airway Inflammation and Clinical Consequences of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Adjunctive Role of Statin Therapy on Airway Inflammation and Clinical Consequences of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of statin therapy on the clinical consequences, as well as airway inflammation and radiological features, in severe chronic obstructive pulmonary cases.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by persistent airflow obstruction due to chronic respiratory symptoms and abnormalities in the airways and alveoli. Despite new treatment developments, mortality rates remain high in both developed and developing countries. Chronic airway inflammation significantly contributes to Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, with statins like atorvastatin showing potential benefits beyond lipid lowering. Observational studies suggest statins may reduce exacerbations and mortality; however, systematic reviews indicate inconsistent clinical benefits. A 2023 meta-analysis noted possible improvements in lung function and inflammation but called for more rigorous trials. A recent 2024 study indicated a minimal impact of statins on exacerbation risk in patients with cardiovascular comorbidities, highlighting ongoing controversy. In light of these findings, a focused randomized trial is proposed for GOLD Group E chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients at higher exacerbation risk, testing atorvastatin's effectiveness on various outcomes.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosed Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease per the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) criteria 2025 (post-bronchodilator forced expiratory volume₁/forced vital capacity < 0.70), meets the definition of grade E Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) criteria 2025 criteria.
• Age ≥ 40 years

Exclusion Criteria:

• Chronic lung diseases other than COPD as bronchial asthma, interstitial lung disease
• Acute or chronic Inhalational lung injury.
• Established indication for statin therapy (atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, familial hyperlipidemia).
• Chronic debilitating diseases as diabetes mellitus, chronic liver disease, chronic kidney disease, and hematological disorders.
• Pregnancy/lactation.
• Known hypersensitivity to statins.
• Unable or refuse to provide informed consent.