How to use your high Lp(a) results in your healthcare

How your Lp(a) levels are used to determine your cardiac risk

Lp(a) is known as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease and can increase disease risk by 2–3 times compared to people with Lp(a) within the normal range [1]. This means that even with normal levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDL), or “bad cholesterol”, your Lp(a) can significantly increase your risk for cardiovascular disease [1]. 

It’s important to remember that although high Lp(a) levels can increase the risk of conditions such as heart disease and stroke it does not mean that you will develop them. Many other factors can impact your risk. Your healthcare provider will assess your overall risk for cardiovascular disease by reviewing your results and other known risk factors. These include your age, your levels of LDL, your levels of high-density lipoproteins (HDL), your triglyceride levels, if you have conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes, your current diet and lifestyle, and your family history. You can read more about these risk factors here.

Treatments available for high Lp(a)

Your healthcare provider will be able to provide guidance based on your individual treatment. Hence, it is important to talk to them about the next steps based on your individual situation. The only approved treatment for high Lp(a) is lipoprotein apheresis. This is only available for certain people with specific medical conditions [2]. 

However, there are many other ways to reduce your overall risk of cardiovascular disease. 

These include managing risk factors such as high LDL cholesterol, and being overweight, or obese as well as managing conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Talk to your healthcare provider about what steps you can take to reduce your risk of heart disease.