Opinion
Video
Insights From the Lp(a) HERITAGE Study
Michael D. Shapiro, DO, and Erin D. Michos, MD, MHS, explain the importance of the global Lp(a)HERITAGE study, emphasizing prevalence of elevated Lp(a) among different populations and the evolving approach to assessing Lp(a) levels.
Michael D. Shapiro, DO, discusses the significant findings from the global LP(a) HERITAGE study, showcasing data from over 48,000 participants across 48 countries, revealing the prevalence of elevated LP(a) in those with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The study highlighted that merely 14% of participants had prior LP(a) measurements, emphasizing the underutilization of LP(a) testing. Elevated LP(a) was prevalent in nearly 28% of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease patients, affirming its association with increased risk.
Erin D. Michos, MD, MHS, focuses on the evolving landscape of cardiology in assessing LP(a) levels. Despite historical discrepancies in guidelines, there's a growing consensus to measure LP(a) at least once in a lifetime due to its actionable nature, indicating increased cardiovascular risk. She emphasizes lifestyle modifications and existing therapies like statins, even though they don't directly lower LP(a) levels. Michos parallels this approach to managing markers like age or coronary calcium scores, advocating for risk reduction strategies despite the inability to alter these markers directly.
Michos further emphasizes the significance of the LP(a) HERITAGE study, clarifying that among individuals with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, approximately 1 in 3 adults had elevated LP(a), demonstrating its prevalence in high-risk populations and its persistence as an independent risk marker even among statin-treated individuals. Ongoing studies aim to address the residual risk associated with elevated LP(a) in both primary and secondary prevention populations.
This summary was AI-generated and reviewed by an AJMC editor.
