Lipoprotein (a)

Lp(a) is a genetic independent risk factor for heart disease. Knowing your Lp(a) levels can help you reduce your risk of heart disease for you or someone you love.

Learn about Lp(a)

Many people don’t have symptoms. You could have a high Lp(a) even if you have a healthy lifestyle and all other heart disease risk factors are controlled. Talk with your health care professional about screening if you have:

  • Known family history of high Lp(a)
  • Family or personal history of heart disease or premature cardiovascular disease
  • Diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), an inherited condition that causes the body to poorly recycle LDL or bad cholesterol

Cascade Screening

Understanding cascade screening
A genetic screening that provides early detection of hereditary conditions such as Lp(a).

Lp(a) Myths Vs. Facts

Lp(a) myths vs facts
Check your knowledge of Lp(a) myths and facts.

Understanding Your Diagnosis

Lp(a) questions to ask your doctor
Find questions to ask your doctor if you’ve been diagnosed with high Lp(a).

Lp(a) FAQ

Knowledge is power. Find answers to your questions about Lp(a). 
What is lipoprotein (a)?

Often referred to as Lp(a), lipoprotein (a) is a type of lipoprotein that is genetically inherited and in high levels is a common independent risk factor for heart disease.

How common is high Lp(a)?

About 1 in 5 people worldwide have high Lp(a).

Should I know my Lp(a) number?

Talk to your health care professional about screening if you have:

  • Known family history of high Lp(a).
  • Family or personal history of heart disease or premature cardiovascular disease.
  • Diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), an inherited condition where the body poorly recycles LDL cholesterol. 
How do I get my Lp(a) tested?

Talk to your health care professional about ordering a simple blood test for you.

My family member has a high Lp(a),
should I get tested?

Yes, if you have a known family history of high Lp(a), talk to your health care professional about getting a simple blood test ordered.

What is a high Lp(a) number?

Greater than or equal to 125 nmol/L (or ≥ 50 mg/dL) equates to an increased risk of a heart attack or stroke.

How can I lower my Lp(a)?

Although Lp(a) is not affected by lifestyle changes, it is still important to lower your overall risk of heart attack and stroke including eating a healthy diet, being physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, stopping tobacco use and getting enough sleep. It’s also important to take medications as prescribed.

Are there symptoms with high Lp(a)?

Many people don’t have symptoms. You could have a high Lp(a) and have all other heart disease related risk factors controlled.

How does Lp(a) impact my health?

High Lp(a) numbers promote clotting and inflammation, significantly increasing risk of heart attack, stroke, aortic stenosis and peripheral artery disease.

Heart & Stroke Helper App

Download the Heart & Stroke Helper app to help manage your cholesterol.
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The 10th Anniversary Of My Triple Diagnosis

'You just had a heart attack' were not the words I expected to hear as a 14-year-old girl when I woke from my hospital bed.

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Novartis is proud to support the ÌÇÐÄVlog’s Lp(a) Awareness and Testing Initiative.