Almost No Public Awareness of Lp(a), Elevated CVD Risk in the US: Katherine Wilemon

Elevated lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) is an important but largely overlooked risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), one that many people, and even many doctors, still aren’t talking about, according to Katherine Wilemon, CEO of the Family Heart Foundation.

In this interview, Wilemon described the “single biggest issue” blocking better care for people with high Lp(a): almost no public awareness. Compared with other well-known risks like high blood pressure or high low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, she said Lp(a) flies under the radar. As a result, many patients at risk for heart attacks or strokes may never learn that Lp(a) is contributing to their danger.

To address this gap, Wilemon urged physicians to begin routinely screening for Lp(a) and talking with patients about what their numbers mean. At the same time, organizations such as the Family Heart Foundation are stepping in to raise awareness. They are using social media, attending community events where they offer free screening, and going to primary care meetings to both screen physicians themselves and provide education. Wilemon noted that the goal is not only to put Lp(a) on the map but also to deepen understanding of how it fits into the broader picture of CVD risk.

One key message from the research is that managing LDL cholesterol remains crucial, especially for people with high Lp(a). In a study of 273,000 individuals with established CVD who also had Lp(a) measured, the Family Heart Foundation found that when LDL cholesterol is aggressively and effectively controlled, it can significantly reduce—though not completely erase—the added risk from elevated Lp(a).

Wilemon explained that LDL cholesterol in the US is often poorly managed, describing this as a kind of unrecognized public health crisis. Yet within that crisis lies an opportunity. By improving LDL control and using Lp(a) awareness as an additional motivator, patients may be more likely to adopt healthier behaviors, such as better nutrition and avoiding smoking or vaping, and clinicians may be more proactive in risk management. Together, these steps could meaningfully “move the needle” in the fight against CVD.