Here’s Why You Should Know Your Lp(a) Level
Heart disease is not always caused by lifestyle alone. For some people, genetics play a significant role.
Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is a type of cholesterol-carrying particle that is largely determined by your genes. While everyone has some Lp(a), approximately 1 in 5 people inherit elevated levels, increasing their lifetime risk of heart disease, stroke, and aortic valve disease.
Because Lp(a) is inherited and not routinely included in a standard cholesterol test, many people are unaware they have an elevated level until a cardiovascular event occurs.
Why should you consider testing your Lp(a)?
It helps identify inherited cardiovascular risk.
High Lp(a) is one of the strongest inherited risk factors for cardiovascular disease. If you have a family history of heart disease or stroke—particularly at a younger age—testing may provide valuable insight into your long-term risk.
One test is usually enough.
Unlike many other health markers, Lp(a) levels are largely established in early childhood and remain relatively stable throughout life. In most cases, a single measurement provides a reliable assessment of your inherited risk.
It isn’t included in routine cholesterol screening.
A standard lipid profile measures total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides—but Lp(a) is not routinely tested. This means you may have normal cholesterol levels while still carrying an increased inherited cardiovascular risk.
Healthy habits are still important—but they may not lower Lp(a).
Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight are essential for heart health, but they have little effect on inherited Lp(a) levels. Researchers are currently studying new treatments specifically designed to reduce Lp(a).
Knowing your risk helps guide prevention.
If your Lp(a) level is elevated, your doctor can work with you to optimise other modifiable cardiovascular risk factors, including LDL cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar, inflammation (such as hs-CRP), weight, and overall metabolic health. Early identification allows for a more personalised approach to reducing long-term cardiovascular risk.
Who should consider Lp(a) testing?
You may wish to discuss Lp(a) testing with your doctor if you:
Have a family history of premature heart disease or stroke.
Would like a more comprehensive assessment of your cardiovascular risk.
Have high cholesterol that is difficult to control.
Have experienced a cardiovascular event despite otherwise normal cholesterol levels.
At Raffles Medical, our physicians provide personalised cardiovascular risk assessments and preventive health screenings to help identify potential risks early and develop an individualised plan to support your long-term heart health.
Knowing your inherited risk today can help protect your heart for years to come.
Raffles Medical Ho Chi Minh City
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