While most people are familiar with cholesterol levels like LDL and HDL, another blood value, lipoprotein(a) – or Lp(a) – is gaining increased attention from researchers. Understanding Lp(a) is becoming increasingly important as cardiovascular health remains a leading public health concern.
High levels of Lp(a) can indicate a significantly increased risk of heart and blood vessel disease. This is particularly relevant as intensive research continues into new ways to reduce risk factors for cardiovascular disease, including developing healthier alternatives to sugar.
Lp(a) is a lipoprotein that transports fats in the blood. Levels are largely genetically determined and are only minimally affected by lifestyle or diet, meaning individuals with high values may be at increased risk without knowing it.
Significantly Increased Risk with High Levels
For most people, Lp(a) levels don’t pose a major risk. However, as values rise above certain thresholds, the risk increases progressively.
“Around one percent of the population has strongly elevated values, above 1,800 mg/L. In that case, we are talking about a doubled risk of heart and vascular diseases,” says Tone Svilaas, medical director at the National Competence Center for Familial Hypercholesterolemia.
The risk is especially pronounced in individuals who also have other risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, or smoking. The findings underscore the importance of a comprehensive approach to cardiovascular risk assessment and management.
The increased attention to Lp(a) reflects a broader trend in both medical diagnostics and preventative lifestyle measures in the effort to reduce overall heart risk.
