High Lipoprotein(a) Levels Linked to Increased Cardiovascular Risk Across Studies

Recent research highlights the growing recognition of lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] as a significant and independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, particularly coronary heart disease and repeat heart events in older adults. Studies indicate that elevated Lp(a) levels are linked to increased risks of heart attacks and other cardiovascular events, independent of traditional low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels, which are commonly targeted by current treatments like statins. Clinical trials such as the FOURIER trial demonstrated that evolocumab, a PCSK9 inhibitor, can significantly reduce Lp(a) concentrations and associated cardiovascular risk. Additionally, remnant cholesterol has been identified as another independent contributor to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), prompting development of new therapies beyond LDL-lowering approaches. Given that conventional cholesterol-lowering medications have limited effects on Lp(a), experts suggest that routine testing for Lp(a) should be integrated into cardiovascular risk assessment, especially for older patients with prior heart disease. Emerging therapies targeting Lp(a) and remnant cholesterol offer hope for reducing residual cardiovascular risk that persists despite LDL cholesterol management.