Cardiologists in Cleveland, Ohio are raising awareness about a little-known genetic condition that affects millions of Americans. This condition, called lipoprotein(a) or Lp(a), leads to dangerously high levels of cholesterol and significantly increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes, often at a young age. This genetic condition, unlike other forms of high cholesterol, is not affected by diet or exercise. As a result, individuals with elevated Lp(a) levels are at a high likelihood of life-threatening heart disease, which often runs in families.
Dr. Steven Nissen, a leading cardiologist at the Cleveland Clinic, has observed that many of his patients with high Lp(a) levels have a family history of heart attacks, strokes, or bypass surgeries in their 40s. This genetic condition affects as many as 64 million Americans, with a higher prevalence among individuals of African and South Asian descent.
While routine blood cholesterol tests do not typically check for Lp(a), there is growing interest among doctors in advocating for wider testing to identify individuals at risk. Some promising drugs for treating Lp(a) are currently undergoing clinical trials, offering hope for those affected by this genetic condition. Dr. Erin Michos, an associate professor of medicine and director of Women’s Cardiovascular Health Research at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, emphasizes the importance of measuring Lp(a) to identify high-risk patients and take proactive steps for prevention.
In Columbus, Ohio, Lori Welsh shares her family’s history of heart disease linked to high Lp(a) levels. Her mother, knowing of her elevated risk, made deliberate lifestyle changes and lived decades longer than her ancestors. This shows the potential impact of understanding and managing one’s Lp(a) levels, even in the absence of specific drugs for treatment.
Research indicates that several drugs targeting Lp(a) are showing promise in reducing levels and mitigating heart disease risks. However, the first real-world results may still be a year away, leaving doctors to focus on managing other heart disease risk factors in the meantime. Nevertheless, the call for widespread screening of Lp(a) remains strong among cardiologists, who believe that identifying high-risk individuals early can lead to proactive prevention and better management of heart risks.
Despite the challenges, individuals like Lori Welsh remain hopeful, participating in clinical trials in the pursuit of life-saving treatments for Lp(a)-related heart disease. This highlights the resilience and determination of those affected by genetic conditions that predispose them to significant health risks. Overall, the growing interest in understanding and addressing Lp(a) underscores the need for continued research and awareness to improve heart health outcomes for millions of Americans.