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Have high Lp(a)? Learn what that means

Have high Lp(a)? Learn what that means

15.MAR.2024

Written by Anna Sanniti Medically reviewed by Dr. Zara Fullerton

In this article, we will help you to answer the following questions:

  • What is the impact of high Lp(a) on your heart health?

  • How do your Lp(a) and LDL cholesterol levels fit into the larger puzzle of your health?

It is important to share your results with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance based on your individual situation.

What is Lp(a)?

Lipoproteins are round particles made of protein and fat that exist in your bloodstream. Lipoprotein (a), also known as Lp(a) is a type of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) produced by the liver that is similar to other types of LDL cholesterol, except that it has an extra protein that makes it stickier. This stickiness makes it more likely to cause blood clots or blockages within arteries. ¹ ²

High Lp(a) levels increase your likelihood of having a heart attack or stroke, especially if you have other conditions such as Familial Hypercholesterolemia or signs of coronary heart disease. However, although high Lp(a) can increase your risk, it does not guarantee that these conditions will develop. Many factors can impact your risk 

If you have high Lp(a) levels, your healthcare provider will be able to provide guidance based on your situation. For some people, a therapy called Lipoprotein apheresis may be recommended, although this is only approved for people with certain medical conditions. Other recommendations from a healthcare provider may include helping to lower your LDL-cholesterol if it is high. 

Lp(a) levels cannot be significantly modified by diet and lifestyle interventions however your healthcare provider may still suggest that you make changes to your diet and lifestyle to help manage LDL cholesterol levels and manage other conditions as this can impact your overall risk. ³

Your Lp(a) level is almost entirely determined (up to 90%) by your genes and high Lp(a) levels can run in families. ⁴ You should discuss your results with family members and talk to your healthcare provider for their recommendations for extended family testing. ³ Family members can also easily purchase a LetsGetChecked cholesterol test online. You can read more about Lp(a) and why high levels can increase your risk of heart disease here.

What are other risk factors for cardiovascular disease?

Your Lp(a) and LDL cholesterol levels are just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to understanding your risk of cardiovascular disease. 

Some of the other risk factors that your healthcare provider may consider are your: 

  • High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels: Having higher HDL may decrease your risk, as HDL transports excess cholesterol back to the liver. ⁵

  • Triglyceride levels: High triglycerides can trigger inflammation in the arteries, and increase the opportunity for plaques to form in the walls of arteries. ⁶

  • Blood pressure: Consistent high blood pressure (130/80 mm Hg or higher) can damage blood vessels and increase the chance of plaque formation in the walls of arteries. ⁷

  • Diabetes: If you have uncontrolled diabetes, high blood glucose levels can damage blood vessels and the nerves that control your blood vessels and heart. ⁸

  • Diet and lifestyle: Certain diet and lifestyle habits can increase the risk of developing high cholesterol, high triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure. ⁹

Let’s recap

  • High Lp(a) may increase your risk of cardiovascular disease due to an increased chance of plaque deposits forming within the walls of your blood vessels.

  • Lp(a) and LDL cholesterol are just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to understanding your risk of cardiovascular disease.

  • High Lp(a) levels can run in families, so you should discuss your results with family members and talk to your healthcare provider for their recommendations for extended family testing.

  • You should discuss your Lp(a) levels, LDL levels, and other cardiac risk factors with your healthcare provider.

Please note that the following is for educational use only and is not a substitute for medical advice. This content cannot diagnose or provide information about treatment. Consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or need specific medical advice relating to any symptoms, conditions, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not delay seeking medical advice and do not disregard professional medical advice based on this content. Your healthcare provider can provide the most suitable guidance based on your situation.

References 1. Journal of Clinical Lipidology: Use of Lipoprotein(a) in clinical practice: A biomarker whose time has come. A scientific statement from the National Lipid Association. Online: lipidjournal.com 2. Medline Plus: Lipoprotein (a) Blood Test. Online: medlineplus.gov3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Lipoprotein (a). Online: cdc.gov4. Reyes-Soffer, Gissette et al. “Lipoprotein(a): A Genetically Determined, Causal, and Prevalent Risk Factor for Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association.” Arteriosclerosis, thrombosis, and vascular biology vol. 42,1 (2022): e48-e60. doi:10.1161/ATV.0000000000000147 5. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About Cholesterol. Online: cdc.gov 6. Cleveland Clinic. Triglycerides and Heart Health. Online: my.clevelandclinic.org7. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. High blood pressure symptoms and causes. Online: cdc.gov 8. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Diabetes, Heart Disease and Stroke. Online: niddk.nih.gov 9. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Coronary Artery Disease. Online: cdc.gov