High Cholesterol and Melanoma: What It Means and What To Do

High cholesterol generally relates to heart and blood vessel risk, not directly to melanoma growth. Evidence so far does not show a consistent harmful effect of high cholesterol on melanoma outcomes, and in some research, higher baseline cholesterol was linked with better results from immune checkpoint inhibitors (a type of immunotherapy). [PM13] In a broader look at statin use (cholesterol‑lowering medicines), some studies show possible survival benefits in melanoma, but overall findings are mixed and certainty is low. [PM18] One large cohort found statin users had better 5‑year survival, though observational design limits firm conclusions. [PM19]

What the research suggests

• Some retrospective data in mixed cancers (including melanoma) found patients starting immunotherapy with higher cholesterol (>200 mg/dL) had longer overall survival. This hints high cholesterol may correlate with better immunotherapy response in certain settings, but it doesn’t prove causation. [PM13]
• A systematic review/meta‑analysis reported a possible reduction in 5‑year death risk with statin use in melanoma, but confidence intervals included no effect and evidence quality was very low. This means results are suggestive but not definitive. [PM18]
• A large veterans’ database analysis associated statin use with better survival in melanoma, which could indicate a benefit, yet observational studies can be affected by confounders. Randomized trials are needed to confirm any true effect. [PM19]
• Earlier population studies did not consistently show improved survival with statins, with possible differences by sex and wide uncertainty. Overall, results are heterogeneous. [PM20]

Should you be concerned?

• About melanoma progression: Current evidence does not show that high cholesterol itself clearly worsens melanoma outcomes. You likely do not need to worry that cholesterol directly accelerates melanoma, though individual factors matter. [PM18] [PM20]
• About overall health: High cholesterol does increase cardiovascular risk over time, so it still deserves attention for heart health. Managing cholesterol remains important for long‑term wellbeing, regardless of melanoma status.
• During cancer therapy: Some targeted therapies in oncology can raise cholesterol and triglycerides as a side effect; when this happens, clinicians often start or adjust lipid‑lowering treatment and may delay or modify cancer therapy if levels are severely high. This is a standard safety approach to reduce cardiac risk during treatment. ^[1]

Statins and melanoma care

• Statins are safe for most people and commonly used alongside cancer treatments. There is no consistent evidence that statins harm melanoma treatment; some studies even suggest potential benefit. [PM18] [PM19] [PM20]
• If you’re already on a statin for cardiovascular risk, continuing it is generally reasonable unless your oncology or cardiology team advises otherwise.
• Decisions about starting statins should consider your LDL levels, overall cardiovascular risk, and any drug interactions. This is best individualized with your clinicians in a cardio‑oncology framework. ^{[2] [3] [4]}

Practical steps you can take

• Know your numbers: Track LDL, HDL, triglycerides, and non‑HDL cholesterol with your care team.
• Lifestyle basics: Heart‑healthy eating, regular physical activity, weight management, and not smoking are helpful and safe during melanoma care (adapted to your energy levels and treatment side effects).
• Coordinate care: If you receive immunotherapy or targeted therapy, let your oncology team know about any lipid changes; they may monitor and treat hyperlipidemia proactively. Working with cardio‑oncology can help balance cancer efficacy and heart safety. ^{[2] [3] [4]}
• Medication review: Share all medicines and supplements with your clinicians to check for interactions with cancer therapy and lipid management.

Bottom line

• High cholesterol does not appear to clearly worsen melanoma, and in some contexts (especially immunotherapy), higher baseline cholesterol has been associated with better outcomes, though this is not definitive. [PM13] [PM18]
• Managing cholesterol is still important for heart health, and statins can be used during melanoma treatment when appropriate. [PM19] [PM20]
• Work closely with your oncology and cardiology teams to monitor lipids, manage cardiovascular risk, and ensure your cancer treatment stays on track. ^{[2] [3] [4]}