What’s Lp(a)?
Lp(a) is a genetically inherited lipoprotein and a common independent risk factor for heart disease. Lp(a) is made up of two major proteins: apolipoprotein(a) [apo(a)] and apolipoprotein B (apoB)-100. Although Lp(a) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or ‘bad’ cholesterol, both contain apoB particles, they are different lipoproteins with unique characteristics. Like Lp(a), high apoB numbers are associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Ask your doctor if ordering a lab test to measure your apoB numbers is right for you.
How do I know if I am at risk for high Lp(a)?
Many people with high Lp(a) don’t experience symptoms, so it’s important to talk with your healthcare professional if you have any of the following:
- Family history of high Lp(a) or early development of heart disease.
- Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH): about a third of people with the condition also have high Lp(a) numbers.
- Personal history of heart attack, stroke, or coronary artery disease before age 55 in men or 65 in women.
- Poor circulation in your legs is caused by peripheral arterial disease.
- Diagnosis of aortic stenosis, a narrowing of the valve between the heart’s lower left chamber and the aorta artery.
How do I get my Lp(a) tested?
Talk with your healthcare professional, especially if you have a family or personal history of heart disease. While Lp(a) isn’t included in most cholesterol tests, your doctor can order a separate blood test that measures Lp(a).
How do I lower my Lp(a)?
While lifestyle changes don’t affect your Lp(a) numbers, doctors recommend people with high Lp(a):
- stay active,
- eat a healthy diet,
- get enough sleep,
- avoid smoking,
- and maintain a healthy body mass index or BMI.
Create a Healthy Eating Pattern
Make smart choices and swaps to build an overall healthy eating style. Watch calories and eat smaller portions.
- Enjoy vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, legumes, nuts, plant-based proteins, lean animal proteins, skinless poultry, fish, and seafood.
- Limit sweetened drinks, alcohol, sodium, red and processed meats, refined carbohydrates like added sugars and processed grain foods, full-fat dairy products, highly processed foods, and tropical oils like coconut and palm.
- Avoid trans-fat and partially hydrogenated oils (found in some commercial baked goods and fried foods).
How to Eat Better
Lipoprotein apheresis is a recommended treatment option for eligible familial hypercholesterolemia patients with high numbers of both LDL and Lp(a). This procedure involves filtering out both Lp(a) and LDL, temporarily lowering their numbers.
