Most Americans Unaware of Non-Statin Cholesterol Treatments: Survey

New survey reveals significant knowledge gap about alternative options for managing cholesterol and heart disease risk.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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A new survey commissioned by The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found that while 60% of Americans are familiar with statins, 61% are unaware of non-statin medications designed to lower cholesterol. The survey also revealed that 73% had never heard of lipoprotein(a), a genetically determined type of cholesterol linked to increased cardiovascular risk, and 67% were unfamiliar with coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring, a non-invasive test that can detect early signs of plaque buildup.

Why it matters

These findings underscore a potential disconnect between medical advancements and public understanding, highlighting the need for improved patient education about the full spectrum of options available for managing cholesterol and preventing cardiovascular events. Ensuring individuals are informed about lifestyle modifications, statins, non-statin medications, and diagnostic tools empowers them to make more informed decisions about their cardiovascular health.

The details

The survey of 1,006 American adults found that while statins remain the cornerstone of cholesterol treatment, there are now several non-statin medication options that can also help lower LDL cholesterol for patients who need alternative therapies. These include ezetimibe, which reduces cholesterol absorption in the small intestine, and PCSK9 inhibitors, which dramatically reduce LDL levels but require more frequent injections. A newer agent, inclisiran, offers less frequent dosing. Beyond medications, awareness and utilization of diagnostic tools like coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring can provide a more personalized assessment of cardiovascular risk.

  • The survey was conducted in December 2025.
  • Updates to the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association cholesterol guidelines are anticipated in 2026.

The players

The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center

A leading academic medical center that commissioned the survey on public awareness of cholesterol treatment options.

Dr. Laxmi Mehta

Director of Preventative Cardiology and Women's Cardiovascular Health at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.

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What they’re saying

“Statins often get a bad reputation, but the evidence consistently shows they are highly effective and remain the cornerstone of cholesterol treatment and lowering heart disease risk.”

— Dr. Laxmi Mehta, Director of Preventative Cardiology and Women's Cardiovascular Health (newsdirectory3.com)

“When we treat a patient, we really do it individualistically. First-line for all patients is going to be an appropriate lifestyle: eating a heart-healthy diet, exercising, avoiding tobacco use, limiting alcohol. And then it really depends on whether they are primary or secondary prevention, which determines what LDL goal to seek for them.”

— Dr. Laxmi Mehta, Director of Preventative Cardiology and Women's Cardiovascular Health (newsdirectory3.com)

What’s next

Updates to the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association cholesterol guidelines are anticipated in 2026, which may further refine treatment recommendations.

The takeaway

This survey highlights the need for improved patient education about the full range of cholesterol management options, including non-statin medications and diagnostic tools like coronary artery calcium scoring. Empowering individuals with knowledge about personalized treatment approaches can lead to better cardiovascular health outcomes.