Researchers at Oxford University tracked 90,000 people, including 19,000 diabetics. They found that taking statins prevented 42 heart attacks or strokes for every 1,000 diabetics given the drugs, reducing the risk by one-third.

Diabetics have a higher risk of cardiovascular problems. Colin Baigent, who led the research, said all diabetics benefited from statins, regardless of age, sex or previous history of cardiovascular disease.

The Oxford team recommended that all diabetics take statins, except children and those with some specific reason for not using them, such as pregnant women or people unable to tolerate drugs.

Diabetes UK, however, said statins should be standard only for those over 40 or with other risk factors for cardiovascular disease.