What's new in the field of lipids, and can it help us prevent stroke?

In this episode of Voice of Stroke, we explore new evidence shaping how lipid management can reduce stroke risk across both primary and secondary prevention. This episode explores: Reassessing statin side effects using large-scale randomised trial data The role of PCSK9 inhibition (VESALIUS-CV) in reducing vascular events in high-risk patients without prior stroke Long-term data linking LDL, lipoprotein(a), and inflammation to stroke risk decades later Together, these findings clarify safety concerns, expand preventive options, and highlight the importance of long-term risk prediction in stroke care. This episode was written by Linxin Li, Editor-in-Chief of the Voice of Stroke Podcast, and Co-Editor Ahmad Nehme. Note: Full transcript available here. The following publications were mentioned in this podcast: NEJM paper on the VESALIUS-CV trial Lancet paper on statin side effects Lancet Neurology paper on prediction of long-term stroke risk 2026 AHA/ACC guideline on lipid management International Journal of Stroke review on lipid management