According to a new study, cholesterol-lowering medicines can also help decrease blood pressure. According to the study's authors, this is the first time that research has proven that statins function in this way in the body. Statins are commonly used to treat high cholesterol levels. The study found that patients who were being treated with statins had lower blood pressures than those who were not. After accounting for other factors such as age, gender, race, weight, history of diabetes, amount of exercise done, and what type of medication was being taken to control blood pressure, the study still concluded that people who are taking statins have lower blood pressures. There are many reasons why someone might have high blood pressure. It is important to determine the cause of any elevated blood pressure values. Only then can proper treatment be provided. Statin drugs work by reducing the level of cholesterol in the blood. By reducing cholesterol, they may also reduce the risk of heart disease and strokes. Studies have shown that there are several other benefits from taking statins including: reduced risk of developing diabetes; improved cognitive function (memory, reasoning skills) in older adults; reduction in cancer risk; and improved symptoms of depression. However, statins should not be taken without consultation with one's doctor due to possible side effects including muscle pain, diarrhea, or increased risk of infections such as tuberculosis.