With a 53% increase in sales, generic drugs have established themselves as the main option for treating hypercholesterolemia. On this 8th, Brazil reinforces the importance of prevention, early diagnosis, and expanding access to treatment.
On National Cholesterol Awareness Day, celebrated on August 8, we remind you that high cholesterol is one of the main villains of cardiovascular health, directly contributing to the advancement of cardiovascular diseases, which are responsible for about 30% of deaths in the country.
Cholesterol is a type of fat that occurs naturally in our bodies and in certain foods. It plays a role in the production of hormones, cells, vitamin D, and acids that aid digestion. However, in excess, especially LDL cholesterol (considered "bad" cholesterol), it can cause blockages in the arteries and lead to heart attacks or strokes.
According to the Ministry of Health, about 14% of Brazilian adults have been diagnosed with high cholesterol. More comprehensive studies indicate that up to 40% of the population has high cholesterol levels, including young people and children.
The truth is that cholesterol itself is not the enemy. The problem occurs when there is an imbalance: high levels of LDL and low levels of HDL (the "good cholesterol"). "Bad" cholesterol (LDL) accumulates on the walls of the arteries, forming plaques that hinder blood flow and contribute to the clogging of these blood vessels.
In addition, genetic factors, such as familial hypercholesterolemia, can contribute to persistently high levels, even among young, healthy individuals.
To do this, it is necessary to have regular blood tests, especially after the age of 20, maintain a balanced diet rich in fiber and good fats (nuts, olive oil, avocado). In addition, reducing the intake of saturated and trans fats found in ultra-processed foods, exercising, avoiding smoking, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption can help prevent the condition.
However, when lifestyle changes are not enough, medications become essential allies, especially statins such as simvastatin and atorvastatin.
According to Tiago de Moraes Vicente, CEO of PróGenéricos, in 2024, 102,648,159 units of generic drugs indicated for the treatment of cholesterol were sold, representing 84.85% of market sales.
“By 2025, sales had reached 58 , 075 , 699 units, an increase of 53.34% compared to 2021, currently corresponding to 87.35% of the total for the category. Between January and June 2025, the average discount applied to medicines in this category was 79.31%.”
These data reinforce the importance of generics as a public health policy and facilitators of continuous treatment for millions of Brazilians.
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