Lipoprotein(a), also referred to as Lp(a), is a biomarker that can provide better insight into your risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) even if your normal lipid panel (e.g. LDL-C, HDL,-C, Cholesterol/HDL ratio) show that you are within the reference range. A simple blood test, ordered by your prescriber, can determine your Lp(a) level as it is not part of a standard lipid panel and needs to be requested specifically. Lp(a) is a biomarker that is based on your parents genetics and as of the date of this posted article there a no FDA approved treatments to assist in lowering Lp(a).
So if the biomarker is genetically provided and cannot be treated pharmacologically, why should you care about it? Because I am a believer that knowledge is power. As such, just because there is no pharmacologic solution does not mean that the CVD risks associated with this biomarker cannot be impacted by making improvements to your lifestyle around exercise, diet, and cessation of activities that are known to aid in developing cardiovascular disease, e.g. smoking.
I only recently learned about Lp(a) via The Drive, Doctor Peter Attia’s podcast, as he mentioned that he likes to screen his patients as early as possible for this biomarker so that they have as much time as possible to address lifestyle choices, including taking a more aggressive approach with pre-existing medical conditions that have an association with CVD, should they be found to have an above reference range Lp(a). Although I’m now 57 and my recent lipid panel came back within reference range, I still wanted to see where my Lp(a) level was in case there was any underlying cardiovascular risk. Fortunately my Lp(a) came in at 15. (Lab reference range: <=29 mg/dl)
For more information on Lipoprotein(a), MedlinePlus put together a nice FAQ (frequently asked questions) which you can find here.
Articles
Lipoprotein(a) Blood Test: What is a Lipoprotein A Blood Test? (MedlinePlus)
High Lp(a) Warrants Intervention, Even Without Other Cardiovascular Risk Factors (peterattiamd.com, Peter Attia, June 1, 2024)
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