Heart health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being and understanding factors that can influence your risk is fundamental. One key player that often flies under the radar is lipoprotein (a)—a unique type of cholesterol closely linked to genetics. If you or a family member has experienced a heart attack, stroke, or cardiovascular issues, it’s time to understand the role of lipoprotein (a) and why early testing could make all the difference.
Lipoprotein (a), also known as Lp (a), is a specific type of cholesterol particle. Think of it as low-density cholesterol (LDL) with an added protein component. Unlike LDL or HDL cholesterol, lipoprotein (a) levels are almost entirely dictated by your genes and remain constant throughout your life. High levels of lipoprotein (a) can significantly increase your risk of heart attack, stroke, or other cardiovascular diseases—even if your LDL or HDL levels are under control.
According to experts, elevated lipoprotein (a) poses unique challenges because it cannot be controlled by standard lifestyle changes like diet or exercise. This is why identifying elevated levels early is critical for proactive heart health management.
| Lpa FACTS – Who is at Risk? | ||||||
 | If you, a parent, brother or sister had a heart attack or stroke at an early age (before age 55 for males and 65 for females) |  | Experiencing poor blood flow in your legs | |||
| Studies show Black individuals are more likely to have elevated Lp(a) compared to those who are white, Hispanic, or Asian. | ||||||
| Knowing your Lp(a) level may help to prevent heart and blood vessel disease. | ||||||
 | Your Lp(a) can be high even with healthy levels of LDL cholesterol |  | Regular cholesterol tests don’t check for Lp(a) levels |  | Labs measure and report Lp(a) differently, so ask what the results mean | |
Family history plays an integral role in lipoprotein (a) levels. If a close relative, such as a parent or sibling, has elevated lipoprotein(a), there’s about a 50% chance that you may have inherited high levels as well. Similarly, if heart diseases like stroke, heart attack, or aortic valve disorders have affected your family—especially at a young age—testing for lipoprotein (a) should be a priority.
Unlike other cholesterol markers that can be managed through lifestyle adjustments, lipoprotein (a) testing offers important insight into your genetic predisposition to cardiovascular risks. A simple blood test can measure your Lp (a) levels, revealing whether you fall within a high-risk category.
Experts recommend testing for lipoprotein (a) levels once in your lifetime, ideally around age 18 or earlier if your family history suggests an elevated risk. If results indicate high levels, additional measures like closely monitoring other cholesterol levels and exploring treatment options can be the key to prevention.
Currently, there are no FDA-approved treatments to lower lipoprotein (a) levels, but research is ongoing. Management focuses on reducing overall cardiovascular risk with strategies like cholesterol-lowering medications, including statins and PCSK9 inhibitors, which may help reduce cardiovascular events in those with high Lp (a). Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle—balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking—is essential to mitigate other risk factors. For high-risk individuals, advanced diagnostics and regular monitoring are key. Working closely with a cardiologist ensures personalized care and timely interventions. While direct treatments are in development, these measures help manage elevated lipoprotein (a) effectively.
At BKLYN Cardio, we’re committed to helping you stay ahead of cardiovascular risks with a holistic approach. From preventive care and lifestyle adjustments to minimally invasive procedures, our team creates a personalized plan to address your concerns. If you need a lipoprotein (a) test or guidance on managing elevated lipoprotein (a) levels, we have your best interests at heart.
Take control of your heart health today. Schedule a consultation with BKLYN Cardio to discuss testing and treatment options. Call or text us at 718-237-4067 or book an appointment today.
