Lipoprotein(a), often referred to as Lp(a), “LP little a”, is a particle that circulates in the bloodstream. If your Lp(a) level is particularly high, you are at significantly increased risk of suffering a heart attack or stroke. Very high Lp(a) levels are often determined by genetics. A prominent theory is that circulating Lp(a) damages arteries, actually causing cardiovascular disease rather than simply being a statistical linkage. If Lp(a) is causative, lowering the level by any means might reduce the risk of heart attacks and cardiac death.
A drug called pelacarsen greatly reduces Lp(a) levels. But the recent HORIZON trial showed that it had no beneficial effect in a particular patient population. Lowering Lp(a) by other methods might reduce risk of heart attack and stroke; we just don’t know. Watch the video for details.
Here’s Dr. Carvalho’s take on the Horizon study:
—–Steve Parker, M.D.
