High Lp(a) can be a
hidden inherited
condition
Actor portrayals.
Knowing if you have high Lp(a) can guide smart choices for your overall heart health—and your family's
You and your doctor may have already discussed conditions that may have increased the risk for an early heart attack or stroke. "Early" means having a heart attack or stroke younger than anyone might expect (for men this is before age 55, for women before age 65). Unless you ask to get tested for an inherited condition called high Lp(a), also known as Lipoprotein (a) or "L-P-little a," you could be missing some important information about your risk.
Lp(a) levels are 90% inherited, meaning they can be passed down from your parents, and are not generally affected by lifestyle, diet, or exercise. Lp(a) levels are usually set around age 5 and typically stay the same throughout life.
See how testing for high Lp(a) can make a difference
An early heart attack or stroke may mean you have high Lp(a). But a heart event doesn’t have to be inevitable. Talk to your doctor about managing your overall cardiovascular risk.
The difference between Lp(a) and high Lp(a)
Lp(a), also known as Lipoprotein (a), is in your blood and made up of both fat (lipo) and protein. Its main job is to help transport fats through your bloodstream.
Everyone naturally has Lp(a) in their blood, and that's perfectly normal; the risk comes when a person has a high level of Lp(a). Too much Lp(a) in the blood can stick to your artery walls and cause harmful blockages, which may lead to a heart attack or stroke. Having high Lp(a) also means you may be at a greater risk for having another heart attack or stroke in the future.
What is a high lipoprotein (a) level
 |
If your Lp(a) level is 125 nmol/L (50 mg/dL) or higher, this indicates a high level and a higher risk.
You can find out if you have high lipoprotein (a) with a simple blood test
No genetic testing is needed. It can be an empowering first step toward determining your overall heart health
“I exercise every day. My diet’s great. I’m not overweight. When people find out I have this genetic marker, they’re like, no, how can it be? I’m really passionate about telling people they need to get this test.”
—Linda B, heart-attack survivor with high Lp(a)