Your smartest health investment isn’t a supplement stack anymore, it’s knowledge. One small, often-missed data point can meaningfully change your heart-health picture: lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a).
Perfectly timed around World Heart Day on September 29th, Novartis and Global Heart Hub brought together clinicians, policy experts and patient advocates to spotlight Lp(a), a genetic risk factor for cardiovascular disease that affects 1 in 5 people worldwide. Despite heart disease claiming nearly 18 million lives annually, awareness lags: a Novartis survey across Asia Pacific and the Middle East found 66% skip routine heart tests, 45% don’t realise heart risk can be genetic, and only 7% have ever been tested for Lp(a). The silver lining is that 58% said they’d consider genetic testing once they knew about it.
What is Lp(a)?
Lp(a) is a particle in the blood, shorthand for a specific type of LDL that’s largely inherited. Elevated Lp(a) raises the risk of heart attack and stroke, independent of other factors. Because it’s genetic, lifestyle alone won’t change it; the value of testing is early awareness and a more tailored prevention plan with your doctor.
“A simple blood test can give a more complete picture of your heart, and help you act sooner,” notes Dr. Ronney Shantouf, Cardiovascular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi.
Think of Lp(a) as the fine print of your lipid profile. If you’re already doing annual check-ups, add this one-line item and upgrade your insight:
Ask your doctor:“Can we add an Lp(a) test to my next lipid panel?”
· It’s a standard blood test and, because levels are genetically determined, your clinician may only need to check it once (they’ll confirm if and when to repeat).
· If your Lp(a) is elevated, your care plan may include tighter control of other risks (blood pressure, LDL-C, inflammation), plus more personalised screening and prevention.
Who should prioritize testing?
· Anyone with family history of early heart disease or stroke
· Those with personal cardiovascular events despite “normal” cholesterol
· Individuals who want a comprehensive view of their risk profile
Beyond the clinic: why awareness matters
Policy leaders at the webinar urged health systems to include Lp(a) in national guidelines so testing becomes routine. Patient stories, like a survivor’s heart attack at 33, underline why this cannot stay a niche topic.
In the same way you customize skincare by genetics and lifestyle, think of Lp(a) as customizing your cardio-prevention. It’s discreet, data-led, and puts you in partnership with your physician, exactly the kind of modern, empowered health strategy LOA champions.
With World Heart Day on 29 September, consider this your cue to book that conversation.
This article draws on expert insights shared at “Introducing the Little (a) with Big Consequences”, Novartis’ global media webinar with Global Heart Hub, featuring voices from Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, University of Western Australia, FH Europe Foundation and others. Always consult your healthcare professional for personalized medical advice.
