Heart disease is the leading cause of death among African Americans. While heart health is important for everyone, it is especially important for the Black community, given our higher risk of developing heart-related chronic conditions. Abnormal amounts of lipoproteins in African Americans can have a significant impact on heart health, but what are they?
Lipoproteins are tiny particles made up of lipids (fats) and proteins that travel in your bloodstream to cells in your body, carrying cholesterol (a type of fat). Some important types of lipoproteins are low-density lipoprotein (LDL-cholesterol), which is the “bad” cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL-cholesterol), known as the “good” cholesterol, and lipoprotein(a), also called Lp(a).
Each type of lipoprotein plays a unique role in your body and can have different effects on your heart health. Understanding these lipoproteins can help you maintain a healthy heart and prevent heart disease. In this article, we’ll break down the basics of elevated lipoprotein(a) and what it means for your heart.
What is Lipoprotein(a)?
Lipoprotein(a), also known as Lp(a), is a specific type of lipoprotein that carries cholesterol in the blood. What makes lipoprotein(a) unique from LDL-cholesterol or HDL-cholesterol is that it has a protein called apolipoprotein(a) attached to it.
The presence of high levels of Lp(a) in the blood has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Additionally, unlike LDL-cholesterol or HDL-cholesterol, an increased level of Lp(a) is genetic, meaning it is inherited from your parents.
Approximately 20% of people have an elevated Lp(a). It is estimated that there are 1.4 billion people worldwide with elevated Lp(a), which is twice the number of people with Type 2 diabetes.
Elevated Lp(a) and Heart Health
Similar to LDL cholesterol, elevated Lp(a) can negatively impact heart health. High levels can lead to the buildup of plaque (which includes fat and cholesterol) in the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. This buildup restricts blood from flowing to vital organs like the heart, brain, kidneys, and lungs. Over time, this can be dangerous and result in an increased risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes.
Four Facts about Elevated Lp(a)
- Lp(a) is not included in your regular cholesterol lab panel. It is a separate test and most people have never had their levels checked before.
- The higher your Lp(a) level is, the more likely you are to experience plaque buildup in your blood vessels. Lp(a) levels of 50 mg/dL (125 nmol/L) or greater are considered high.
- Higher Lp(a) levels are associated with stiffening and narrowing of the aortic valve in the heart, making it more difficult for the heart to pump blood to the body.
- Lp(a) levels are genetic, which means it is passed on to you by your parents. Even if you live a healthy lifestyle, it is still possible that your levels may be elevated if you have a family member with high Lp(a).
Understand Your Risk
Your Lp(a) levels are determined by your genes. Unlike LDL-cholesterol, lifestyle changes such as healthy eating and physical activity will not lower your levels. There is a blood test that can measure your Lp(a) levels. Your healthcare provider can determine if this test may be appropriate for you and order it if necessary. They can also help you understand your levels and your heart disease risk.
Researchers believe that lowering Lp(a) levels might lower the risk for heart disease, stroke, or peripheral artery disease. Click here to learn more about research clinical trials.
References:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Heart Disease Facts.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About Heart Disease.
- American College of Cardiology. Lipoprotein(a) in Clinical Practice
- National Library of Medicine. Lipoprotein(a): A Genetically Determined, Causal, and Prevalent Risk Factor for Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Lipoprotein (a)
