What is Lipoprotein(a) and how does it affect heart health?

Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is a genetic cholesterol disorder that sharply increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes, even in younger people with normal cholesterol levels. Lp(a) is a fatty particle similar to LDL "bad" cholesterol, but with an added protein that makes it an even greater cardiac threat.

How can patients with high Lp(a) levels reduce their heart disease risk?

Patients with elevated Lp(a) are advised to take steps to lower their LDL cholesterol, such as through lifestyle changes and medication. Some may also be eligible for a procedure called apheresis that removes Lp(a) and LDL from the blood, though this method is expensive and not widely used.

Home / Health / Genetic Condition Linked to Premature Heart Attacks Gains Attention

Genetic Condition Linked to Premature Heart Attacks Gains Attention

Q: What new treatments are being developed for Lp(a)?

Several experimental drugs have shown the ability to dramatically lower Lp(a) levels, by up to 94%, by targeting the gene responsible for the molecule. If these treatments prove effective in reducing heart attacks and strokes, they could receive FDA approval within the next two years, providing a much-needed solution for this overlooked genetic disorder.

2 Aug

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Summary

High Lp(a) levels sharply raise stroke, heart attack risk
Experimental drugs show promise in lowering Lp(a) by up to 94%
Patients with family history urged to get tested for Lp(a)

As of August 2025, a genetic condition called Lipoprotein(a) is gaining significant attention as a major risk factor for premature heart attacks and strokes. Lp(a) is a fatty particle similar to LDL "bad" cholesterol, but with an added protein that makes it an even greater cardiac threat.

Higher-than-normal Lp(a) levels encourage the development of blood clots and plaque buildup in the arteries, sharply increasing the risk of severe cardiovascular events - even in younger individuals with otherwise healthy cholesterol levels. This condition has long flown under the medical radar, with most patients and many doctors unaware of its significance.

However, the picture is starting to change. In recent clinical trials, several experimental drugs have demonstrated the ability to slash Lp(a) levels by up to 94% by targeting the gene responsible for the molecule. If these treatments prove effective in reducing heart attacks and strokes, they could receive FDA approval within the next two years, providing a much-needed solution for this overlooked genetic disorder.

In the meantime, experts recommend that everyone, especially those with a family history of early-onset heart disease, get their Lp(a) levels tested. Proactive steps to lower LDL cholesterol and manage other risk factors can also help mitigate the dangers posed by elevated Lp(a).

Disclaimer: This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.