Rapid advances have been witnessed in the understanding and management of dyslipidemia which has led to widespread use of statins. Statins have been proved to be beneficial in primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases and in secondary prevention of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. Preliminary studies have also documented benefit of statins in lipid independent conditions. The rate of occurrence of adverse events determines the risk benefit ratio of statins in low risk individuals. Hence, the irrational overuse of statins is a matter of concern. Statins for all will be a reality only if backed by clinical reasoning and quality evidence.

KEYWORDS: Statins; Primary prevention; Cardiovascular diseases.