Lp(a) is an independent, heritable risk factor for cardiovascular disease that most people never get tested for. Unlike most lipid markers, it barely moves across your life — which is exactly why a single measurement matters.
What Lp(a) measures
Lp(a) is an LDL-like particle with an additional protein (apolipoprotein(a)) attached. It appears to contribute to both atherosclerosis and clot formation. Your level is set largely by genetics — lifestyle changes don't move it much.
What the numbers mean
Lp(a) can be reported in mg/dL or nmol/L; the two don't convert cleanly. Roughly, values under ~30 mg/dL (or ~75 nmol/L) are generally considered lower risk, and values above ~50 mg/dL (or ~125 nmol/L) are typically flagged as elevated. Guidelines vary and the field is still refining thresholds; your clinician will interpret your result in context.
Why trend matters less here
Unusually for a blood test, Lp(a) is relatively stable across adulthood. Most guideline bodies recommend testing it once unless there's a specific reason to repeat. What changes over time is what you do with the result — the strategy, the ApoB target, the earlier imaging conversations.
What can move it
Lifestyle interventions generally don't meaningfully lower Lp(a). Certain medications (including niacin and some experimental therapies) have effects; PCSK9 inhibitors produce modest reductions. Targeted Lp(a)-lowering drugs are in clinical trials. For now, an elevated Lp(a) usually shifts attention to aggressive management of other modifiable risk factors — particularly ApoB.
How VisitRecall tracks it
One test, preserved forever on your record, surfaced in any future visit where it matters. See lab tracking and the longevity hub.
FAQ
Will my insurance cover it?
Coverage varies. Some payers cover it with a family history of early heart disease; cash prices are often reasonable if not.
Should my kids be tested?
Because Lp(a) is heritable, many clinicians consider family screening when one member is elevated. Ask your doctor.
If it's high, is there anything I can do?
Yes — aggressively managing other risk factors (blood pressure, ApoB, smoking, fitness) is the standard approach today.
