Taking statins might slightly increase your chance of getting diabetes — about 1 in 500 people per year — especially if you already have a higher risk for diabetes.

What we've found so far is that taking statins might slightly increase the chance of developing diabetes, particularly in people who already have a higher risk. Our analysis of the available evidence shows this effect is small—about 1 in 500 people per year may develop diabetes due to statin use [1]. We analyzed one assertion from the research, and it supports the idea that statins are linked to a small rise in diabetes risk [1]. We did not find any studies that refute this. The evidence we've reviewed leans toward statins having a minor role in increasing diabetes risk, but only for some people. It does not tell us whether this risk is the same across all age groups, doses, or types of statins. Also, we don’t have enough data to say how this risk compares over long periods or in people with low baseline risk. We want to be clear: this is not a definitive conclusion. Our current analysis is based on limited evidence—only one assertion so far. As we review more studies, our understanding may change. We cannot say statins cause diabetes, only that the evidence we’ve seen suggests a slight association. If you're taking statins or considering them, this means it’s worth being aware of your blood sugar levels, especially if you already have risk factors like being overweight, having prediabetes, or a family history of diabetes. The overall risk increase is small, but it’s something you and your doctor can monitor over time. We’ll keep analyzing new research and update our understanding as more evidence becomes available.