local
Statins alone won’t lower cholesterol without lifestyle changes, cardiologist says
By Viv Williams at WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate)
· July 1, 2026
· 3 min read
(Aging Untold) — Statins are the most effective lipid-lowering medications for most people with high cholesterol, according to the American Heart Association, but a cardiologist says the drugs are not a substitute for healthy habits. “If someone comes to me and says, ‘Doc, give me this statin so ...
Key takeaway Stephen Kopecky, a Mayo Clinic cardiologist, said.
Why this matters in The Nashville
In Nashville , where heart disease is a leading cause of death, the message from cardiologists like Dr. Stephen Kopecky is particularly relevant. Many residents may be relying on statins to manage their cholesterol levels, but without accompanying lifestyle changes, these medications may not be as effective. The emphasis on healthy habits, such as regular exercise and a heart-healthy diet, is crucial for improving overall health and reducing the risk of cardiac events. For Nashville residents who may be at risk for heart disease, it's worth noting that local resources, such as community fitness programs and healthy eating initiatives, can provide support for making these lifestyle changes. By combining medication with healthy habits, individuals can better manage their cholesterol levels and reduce their risk of heart disease, ultimately improving their overall health and well-being in the Nashville community. This approach can also help reduce the burden on local healthcare systems.
About this story
Original reporting by WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) . The Nashville surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 1, 2026 ·
Source: WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) ·
Reading time: 3 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? (Aging Untold) — Statins are the most effective lipid-lowering medications for most people with high cholesterol, according to the American Heart Association, but a cardiologist says the drugs are not a substitute for healthy habits. “If someone comes to me and says, ‘Doc, give me this statin so ...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 1, 2026 by WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) and curated for The Nashville readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Viv Williams at WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate). To learn more about how The Nashville selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Nashville, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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