Statin use in cancer patients with brain metastases: a missed communication opportunity at the end of life

Purpose Preventive care, referring to medical interventions with anticipated long-term benefits, is often inappropriately continued near the end of life. We examined the use of statin medications in patients with brain metastases receiving whole brain radiation therapy to determine the effect of short life expectancy and regular interaction with oncology providers on statin discontinuation. We propose reasons for the unnecessary continuation of preventive care and suggest that it is a frequently missed communication opportunity to discuss prognosis in a concrete manner. Methods This is a retrospective study examining statin use in patients receiving whole brain radiotherapy for brain metastases. A total of 206 patients at two cancer centers were studied, and information on statin use and clinical characteristics was obtained from review of the medical record. Results Of the 206 patients, 53 (26 %) were on a statin at their initial radiation oncology consultation. Of these patients, 13 (25 %) had their statin discontinued by the time of their last follow-up visit, but 40 patients (75 %) were continued on their statin despite their limited life expectancy and low likelihood of benefit. Conclusions The majority of patients who were on statins prior to starting palliative whole brain radiation therapy remained on a statin after completing treatment despite an estimated survival of months and regular visits with an oncologist. This represents a missed opportunity for doctors and patients to discuss the appropriateness of continuing preventive care as part of an important conversation about prognosis.