It seems recently like the whole world has been talking about
statins - these are cholesterol lowering drugs - as a recent
study published in the Lancet hit the headlines, talking about
prescribing them for everyone over 50 in an effort to stave off
the devastating effects of heart disease. At the British Heart
Foundation our research has shown that even for those already
diagnosed with high cholesterol, 1 in 3 people do not take their
medication as prescribed. 1 in 4 people with high blood
pressure, another heart disease risk factor, did not take their
medication as prescribed. We need to get the message out there
that when you're prescribed medication it's an acceptable part
of getting and keeping healthy. With his family's permission,
we've taken on legendary comedian Tommy Cooper's voice and image
to help get this idea across. There are many reasons why people
do not take their medication as agreed with their doctor. These
include forgetfulness, side effects, not understanding the
treatment, busy lives...