SHARJAH: A pioneering study from the University of Sharjah and Burjeel Cancer Institute has found a potential new benefit for statins—commonly used to lower cholesterol. The research, in collaboration with global institutions including Harvard and Moffitt Cancer Center, suggests these medications may significantly improve survival for certain blood cancer patients.
The study focused on individuals with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL). Results showed patients taking statins at the start of targeted cancer therapies like ibrutinib were 61 percent less likely to die from cancer and 38 percent less likely to die overall. Additionally, statin use appeared to reduce disease progression by 26 percent, without increasing severe side effects.
Dr. Ahmad Abuhelwa, lead researcher and assistant professor at the University of Sharjah, described the study as the first systematic evaluation of statin use in this setting. Data was analysed from over 1,400 patients in four international clinical trials, spanning seven years.
While the results are promising, Dr. Abuhelwa noted that further clinical trials are needed to confirm whether statins can be used as supportive cancer treatments. “We must be cautious—this is an observational study and does not establish causation,” he said.
Prof. Humaid Al Shamsi, CEO of Burjeel Cancer Institute, called the findings “an exciting step forward” in oncology. The research has garnered global attention, featuring in media outlets such as The Telegraph and Medscape, and has been translated into multiple languages.
University of Sharjah leaders praised the work as proof of the institution’s strong commitment to impactful research and international collaboration.
