Crestor, an even more powerful statin from AstraZeneca (nyse: AZN - news - people ) could also benefit, but may be held back because it does not have the same track record of safety as Lipitor.

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However, he said professionals felt under pressure because of the "fear of being seen to be labelling abuse when it isn't there" and often held back from doing so until the signs were irrefutable.

BBC: When should a child go into care?