It stands for lipoprotein (a). It is a type of lipoprotein that is genetically inherited and in high levels is a common independent risk factor for heart disease.

About 1 in 5 people worldwide have high Lp(a).

Talk to your health care professional about screening if you have:

• Known family history of high Lp(a).
• Family or personal history of heart disease or premature cardiovascular disease.
• Diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), an inherited condition where the body poorly recycles LDL cholesterol. 

Talk to your health care professional about ordering a simple blood test for you.

Yes, if you have a known family history of high Lp(a), talk to your health care professional about getting a simple blood test ordered.

Greater than or equal to 125 nmol/L (or ≥ 50 mg/dL) equates to an increased risk of a heart attack or stroke.

Although Lp(a) is not affected by lifestyle changes, it is still important to lower your overall risk of heart attack and stroke including eating a healthy diet, being physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, stopping tobacco use and getting enough sleep. It’s also important to take medications as prescribed.

Many people don’t have symptoms. You could have a high Lp(a) and have all other heart disease related risk factors controlled.