What is apolipoprotein B (apoB) and why is it important for heart health?

ApoB is a protein on harmful fat particles in the blood that may be a better predictor of heart disease risk than LDL cholesterol, as it directly counts these artery-clogging particles.

How does apoB testing compare to LDL cholesterol screening?

While LDL measures cholesterol within particles, apoB directly counts the number of harmful particles, offering a more comprehensive assessment of cholesterol burden.

What are the current recommendations and accessibility of apoB testing?

Routine apoB screening is not yet widespread, with less than 1% of U.S. adults tested, though costs are around $70 and some insurance may cover it.

Home / Health / Beyond LDL: Is ApoB the Key Heart Marker?

Beyond LDL: Is ApoB the Key Heart Marker?

8 Feb

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Summary

ApoB protein may be a better heart disease predictor than LDL.
Each harmful particle has one apoB molecule, indicating particle count.
Less than 1% of U.S. adults have been tested for apoB.

Beyond LDL: Is ApoB the Key Heart Marker?

Apolipoprotein B (apoB), a protein found on harmful fat particles in the blood, is increasingly recognized as a more accurate predictor of heart disease risk than standard LDL cholesterol tests. Unlike LDL, which measures cholesterol within particles, apoB directly counts the number of these artery-clogging particles.

Despite its potential, routine apoB screening is not yet recommended by major guidelines, except for select patients. Experts suggest that apoB testing could offer a more comprehensive assessment of cholesterol burden, aiding in the evaluation of plaque buildup.

Currently, less than 1% of adults in the United States have undergone apoB testing. This underutilization is significant, especially considering heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S. for both men and women.