Lipoprotein(a): An important piece of the ASCVD risk factor puzzle across diverse populations

Elevated lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) is an independent, genetic risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) that impacts ~1.4 billion people globally. Generally, Lp(a) levels remain stable over time; thus, most individuals need only undergo Lp(a) testing through a non-fasting blood dra...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Published in:American heart journal plus 2024-02, Vol.38, p.100350, Article 100350
Main Authors: Ciffone, Nicole, McNeal, Catherine J., McGowan, Mary P., Ferdinand, Keith C.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
ASCVD
Atherogenic
Cardiovascular risk
Genetic
Lipoprotein(a)
Research Paper
Testing
Citations: Items that this one cites
Online Access:Get full text
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:Elevated lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) is an independent, genetic risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) that impacts ~1.4 billion people globally. Generally, Lp(a) levels remain stable over time; thus, most individuals need only undergo Lp(a) testing through a non-fasting blood draw once in their lifetime, unless elevated Lp(a) is identified. Despite the convenience of the test for clinicians and patients, routine Lp(a) testing has not been widely adopted. This review provides a guide to the benefits of Lp(a) testing and solutions for overcoming common barriers in practice, including access to testing and lack of awareness. Lp(a) testing provides the opportunity to reclassify ASCVD risk and drive intensive cardiovascular risk factor management in individuals with elevated Lp(a), and to identify patients potentially less likely to respond to statins. Moreover, cascade screening can help to identify elevated Lp(a) in relatives of individuals with a personal or family history of premature ASCVD. Overall, given the profound impact of elevated Lp(a) on cardiovascular risk, Lp(a) testing should be an essential component of risk assessment by primary and specialty care providers. [Display omitted] •Elevated Lp(a) is an independent, genetic, and causal risk factor for ASCVD.•Early detection of elevated Lp(a) may allow intensive CV risk factor management.•Early identification of elevated Lp(a) may help reclassify ASCVD risk.•All adults should undergo Lp(a) testing using a routine blood draw.•Cascade screening can identify elevated Lp(a) in relatives.
ISSN:2666-6022
2666-6022
DOI:10.1016/j.ahjo.2023.100350