What is a key effect of statin therapy?

Statin therapy primarily works by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which plays a crucial role in cholesterol synthesis in the liver. One of the key effects of statins is their ability to decrease LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels, which is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol because high levels are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. In addition to this, statins have also been shown to decrease triglycerides, another type of fat in the blood that, when elevated, can contribute to heart disease.

Although the primary function of statins is to lower LDL cholesterol, they can also have beneficial effects on HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, often termed "good" cholesterol. Statin therapy has been associated with a modest increase in HDL levels in some individuals, which can further improve cardiovascular risk profiles. Thus, the combination of decreasing triglycerides and the concurrent increase in HDL is a well-documented benefit of statin therapy that supports its use in managing cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease.

This dual action of decreasing triglycerides while increasing HDL reflects the overall positive impact of statins on lipid profiles, making the chosen answer correct.