I WAS appalled to learn that it has been suggested that all over-75s should be put on statins.

Six years ago at the age of 69 I was put on statins to reduce my elevated cholesterol level.

About a month after starting them I developed crippling pains in knees, hips and shoulders – so much so that I could only walk with aid of two sticks.

I went to my local chemist, explained that I had developed the crippling condition almost overnight, and asked if he had any idea what might be causing it.

His first words were, “are you taking statins?”.

I replied in the affirmative and he told me to stop them immediately.

I did so, and with three days the pains in my joints had disappeared completely.

Wishing to be sure that it was the statins that were responsible I started them again and within a few days the severe pain in my joints returned.

I then went to my GP, explained what had happened and was prescribed an alternative medication.

He also told me that he and his colleagues were well aware that a huge number of people suffered these and other severe side effects when prescribed the statins.

ROBERT READMAN

Norwich Avenue West, Bournemouth