Global prescription patterns and practices: Utilization of statins in diabetes management across nations

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) poses a significant risk for individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and statins are integral in preventing such complications. However, global statin prescription practices often diverge from clinical guidelines, which can lead to suboptimal cardiovascular outcomes. This review examines global trends in statin prescription patterns in T2DM management, focusing on adherence to clinical guidelines, gaps in statin utilization, and the impact on cardiovascular health. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses-2 guidelines, this systematic review analyzed eight studies on statin prescription trends, guideline adherence, and therapy intensity, revealing significant global variations in prescription practices. Notably, higher prescription rates were found in Asia compared to Africa and certain developed nations. Despite recommendations, high-intensity statins were underutilized globally, with many patients receiving moderate- or low-intensity therapy. Inappropriate statin use was also observed in low-risk T2DM patients, raising concerns about unnecessary exposure to potential adverse effects. The findings underscore the urgent need for improved adherence to clinical guidelines, particularly for high-risk T2DM patients, and highlight the importance of addressing these barriers. To optimize cardiovascular outcomes, the review emphasizes enhanced physician education, better implementation of guidelines, and targeted strategies to optimize statin therapy. Addressing these gaps could lead to a reduction in CVD risk and improved outcomes for patients with T2DM globally.