Lp(a) Ethnicity and Gender Risks

EP: 1.Decoding Atherogenic Lipoproteins: Unraveling the Role of LDL and Lp(a)

EP: 2.Unveiling Hidden Risks: The Case for Lp(a) Testing

EP: 3.Lp(a) Genetic Patterns

EP: 4.Insights From the Lp(a) HERITAGE Study

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EP: 5.Lp(a) Ethnicity and Gender Risks

EP: 6.Unveiling Cardiovascular Disparities in Lp(a)

EP: 7.Lp(a) Screening in ASCVD: Clinical Integration

EP: 8.Integration of Lp(a)Testing Across Health Care Organizations

EP: 9.A Look to The Future of Lp(a) Management

EP: 10.Actionable Insights for Health Care Decision Makers on Lp(a) Testing

This is a video synopsis/summary of an Insights involving Michael D. Shapiro, DO, and Erin D. Michos, MD, MHS.

Shapiro details findings from the global lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) heritage study, highlighting disparities in Lp(a) levels among racial and gender groups. Notably, individuals of African descent exhibited significantly higher Lp(a) levels, suggesting a need for targeted attention in underserved communities to mitigate cardiovascular risks associated with elevated Lp(a). Michos delves into gender differences in Lp(a) levels, noting that women, particularly postmenopausal ones, showed a slight increase in Lp(a) possibly linked to hormonal changes. Despite this, Lp(a) remains largely genetically determined, with only modest fluctuations observed.

Regarding real-world testing, Michos discusses the underutilization of Lp(a) assessment in clinical practice. Analyses of US claims data among high-risk patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) revealed minimal Lp(a) screening, indicating a lack of awareness among clinicians. She emphasizes the need to raise awareness and broaden testing criteria, aligning with updated recommendations endorsing universal Lp(a) screening once in a lifetime for all individuals, especially those with unexplained ASCVD or suboptimal responses to statin therapy. These insights stress the necessity of widespread Lp(a) awareness and testing in clinical settings to identify and manage cardiovascular risks effectively.

Video synopsis is AI-generated and reviewed by AJMC^® editorial staff.