What is Lp(a)?
There is a blood test that can be performed to evaluate your risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. What is this test? It’s called Lipoprotein a or Lp(a). It is a test that measures the amount of Lp(a) in the blood. Lipoprotein a is a cholesterol rich substance made in the liver. Its production rate is strongly determined by genetics which means it has been found that elevations in Lp(a) tend to run in families. Another risk factor for elevated Lp(a) is ethnicity, with an increased level noted in individuals of African and Asian descent. Individuals with elevations in Lp(a) are at an increased risk for cardiovascular disease. See our blog post: Cardiovascular Diseases Explained to learn more about these conditions.
How Does Lp(a) Impact My Cardiovascular Risk?
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Elevated Lp(a) in the blood stream, increases risk of cardiovascular disease. Lp(a) causes plaque buildup, potential narrowing of arteries leading to blockages, and can increase inflammation in the circulatory systems. People with elevated Lp(a) often do not have symptoms which is why it is important to ask your doctor to check this level. It is especially important if you have a strong family history of early heart disease, including premature heart attacks (before age 50), familial hypercholesterolemia, or known family history of elevation.
How Common are High Levels of Lp(a)?
High levels of Lp(a) are relatively common, affecting 1 in 5 people. An Lp(a) of 50 mg/dL or more increases your risk of heart attack, stroke, peripheral artery disease (PAD), aortic stenosis, and other heart conditions. Regular monitoring of Lp(a) is not routine because there are no approved treatment options for lowering Lp(a) to date. The good news is that there are clinical trials being conducted with drug compounds that may help to lower Lp(a) levels, and in theory, reduce the risk of having a cardiovascular event. Chase Medical Research is at the forefront of testing these compounds and has enrolling and/or upcoming trials at both locations. If you are interested in being involved in this medical advancement, please contact our office at (203) 419-4404 to see if you qualify!
Understanding Lp(a)
You can also visit this fact sheet from the American Heart Association for more information about Lp(a).
