Little-known Cholesterol Type Doubles Stroke Risk and Runs in Families, New Study Finds
A Silent Killer: The Hidden Danger of Lipoprotein(a)
In a shocking revelation, experts have uncovered a little-known cholesterol type that runs in families and nearly doubles the risk of stroke. This silent killer, known as lipoprotein(a) or Lp(a), has been flying under the radar for far too long, putting millions of Americans at risk of suffering deadly heart attacks and strokes. Unlike other types of cholesterol, Lp(a) cannot be altered with diet and exercise, making it a formidable foe that requires urgent attention.
Understanding the Danger of Lp(a)
While it is widely known that high cholesterol, specifically LDL, poses a significant risk for heart disease and stroke, Lp(a) takes the danger to a whole new level. This cholesterol type is made up of “sticky” proteins that quickly form clumps, obstructing healthy blood flow and interfering with the proper functioning of blood vessels. Studies have shown that individuals with high levels of Lp(a) have a two- to three-fold higher risk of heart attack and a nearly two-fold increased risk of stroke compared to those with normal levels.
The Silent Threat: Genetic Determination
One of the most concerning aspects of Lp(a) is that its levels are determined almost entirely by genetics. This means that even individuals with low LDL cholesterol levels may have high levels of Lp(a), putting them at risk without their knowledge. Regular tests for high cholesterol won’t detect Lp(a), making it crucial for doctors to adopt more comprehensive cholesterol testing methods that can identify high levels of this dangerous cholesterol type.
The Power of Knowledge: Empowering Patients
Despite the lack of approved treatments for elevated Lp(a), doctors emphasize the importance of testing patients to empower them with knowledge about their genetic risk for cardiovascular disease. By understanding their Lp(a) levels, individuals can take proactive steps to manage other risk factors such as high LDL cholesterol. This knowledge can lead to more aggressive treatment approaches, including the use of antihypertensives and lipid-lowering drugs, as well as personalized risk prediction through calcium score testing.
The Case of Lori Welsh: A Life Transformed
Lori Welsh, a 51-year-old native of Dublin, Ohio, shares her transformative experience after uncovering her family history of high Lp(a). She discovered that her ancestors had all died from heart attacks or strokes at a young age, with none living past 54. At 47, Lori herself suffered a heart attack, with doctors later revealing a 90 percent blockage in her anterior descending artery. However, armed with the knowledge of her high Lp(a) levels, she was able to manage her other risk factors through a healthy diet and regular exercise. As a result, she defied her family’s fate and lived well into her 70s.
Hope on the Horizon: Promising Treatments
While there are currently no approved treatments for elevated Lp(a), several pharmaceutical companies are working on potential solutions. Eli Lilly’s lepodisiran, Amgen’s olpasiran, and Novartis’ pelacarsen have shown promising results in reducing Lp(a) levels in clinical trials. These drugs have the potential to revolutionize the treatment landscape for individuals with high Lp(a) and provide hope for millions who are currently living with this silent threat.
Looking Ahead: A Call for Action
With an estimated 65 million Americans having high levels of Lp(a), it is imperative that healthcare providers prioritize comprehensive cholesterol testing to detect this hidden danger. By identifying individuals at risk, doctors can implement aggressive treatment strategies and empower patients to take control of their cardiovascular health. As pharmaceutical companies continue to develop treatments for elevated Lp(a), the goal remains to keep patients alive until these life-changing drugs hit the market.
In conclusion, the discovery of lipoprotein(a) as a little-known cholesterol type that runs in families and nearly doubles the risk of stroke has shed light on a silent killer that has been overlooked for far too long. By raising awareness about Lp(a) and advocating for comprehensive cholesterol testing, we can ensure that individuals at risk receive the necessary care and support to mitigate their risks of heart disease and stroke. With promising treatments on the horizon, there is hope for a future where Lp(a) is no longer a silent threat but a conquerable foe.
