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Doctor's Assessment Included

Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Cardiovascular

Lipoprotein(a): Understanding Your Genetic Cardiovascular Risk

Lp(a) is a genetic cardiovascular risk factor that doesn't change with lifestyle. Knowing your level lets you take targeted action on the risk factors you can control.

What It Measures

This test measures the concentration of Lp(a) particles in your blood. The level is largely set by your genes and stays fairly stable throughout life.

Why It Matters

An elevated Lp(a) is an independent and causal risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Because it is genetically determined, knowing your level helps you and your doctor judge your inherent cardiovascular risk. Lipoprotein(a) resembles LDL but also contains apolipoprotein(a). An elevated level is associated with a higher risk of heart disease. Research into new medicines that may lower Lp(a) is ongoing; discuss with your GP what your value means for you. For a fuller picture of heart health it is often viewed alongside LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol and ApoB, and you can combine these markers in a custom blood test on the biomarkers page.

When to Test

Testing is generally advised at least once in a lifetime. It is especially relevant if you have a family history of early cardiovascular disease or unexplained cardiovascular events. If you want a broader heart-health check, you can add related markers such as triglycerides and HDL cholesterol from the biomarkers overview or build a custom blood test.

Symptoms

Low Levels

Low Lp(a) levels are favourable and not associated with health concerns.

High Levels

Elevated Lp(a) does not cause direct symptoms but significantly increases cardiovascular risk, including heart attack and stroke, over time.

Lifestyle Tips

While Lp(a) is largely genetic, managing other cardiovascular risk factors (LDL, blood pressure, smoking, weight) becomes even more important if your Lp(a) is elevated. Discuss management strategies with your healthcare provider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I lower Lp(a) with diet and exercise?
Lp(a) levels are largely genetically determined and do not respond much to diet or exercise. Managing other risk factors becomes more important. Discuss your options with your healthcare provider.
How often should I test Lp(a)?
Lp(a) is largely genetically determined and stays stable, so repeat testing is usually not needed; discuss this with your GP.
Is high Lp(a) common?
Around 20% of people may have an elevated Lp(a). It is one of the most common genetic risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
Should I test Lp(a) together with other cholesterol markers?
Many people view Lp(a) alongside LDL cholesterol and ApoB for a fuller picture. You can combine these in a custom blood test, but your doctor can advise what fits your situation.

Test Products

This marker is included in the following test panels.