Although associations between cholesterol and coronary heart disease (CHD) are well accepted, the association between cholesterol and stroke remains unclear. Epidemiological studies suggest lack of apparent correlation between cholesterol and cerebrovascular events, however meta-analyses of secondary prevention trials tested statins (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors) efficacy in reducing cholesterol revealed a powerful statistically significant effect to reduce stroke as well as CHD (32%). Mechanism for stroke reduction can be connected with nonlipid mechanism of statins action: modifying endothelial function and inflammatory responses, plaque stabilisation and inhibition of plaque progression and thrombus formation in the intracranial and extracranial carotid arteries. Stroke events may be also reduced partially as a consequence of CHD reduction.