What is lipoprotein A?

What is lipoprotein A

Lipoprotein A is one type of LDL cholesterol. It. is genetically inherited and can be a risk factor for heart problems like clogged arteries, heart attacks and strokes.

Your body makes Lp(a) in the liver by combining two parts: apolipoprotein(a) and apolipoprotein B100. These parts stick together and travel through your bloodstream.

How is it harmful?

Having too much Lp(a) in your blood, especially above 50mg/dl, can mean you're more likely to develop atherosclerosis and heart issues.

It is important to get your levels checked by a doctor as you having high Lp(a) is asymptomatic. This way Checking Lp(a) levels can help doctors figure out who might need more help keeping their heart healthy.

What to do if you have high Lp(a) levels

There's no magic pill to fix high Lp(a) levels yet. Some medicines can lower it, but none are specifically approved for it. So, for now, the best bet is to focus on overall heart health.

Scientists are still trying to understand Lp(a) better and come up with better ways to treat it. European Society of Cardiology recommends to test everyone one time.

Lp(a) is like a sneaky villain in your blood that can mess with your heart. Keeping an eye on it might help catch heart problems early, and mitigating it with lifestyle changes while doctors and scientists figure out the best ways to deal with it.