LDL
Low-density lipoprotein carries cholesterol. Too much LDL cholesterol can contribute to plaque building up in artery walls.
Learn · Lp(a) basics
A small particle with a family story.
Let’s make the science easier to understand. Lp(a) is short for lipoprotein(a), pronounced “L-P-little-a.”
First, cholesterol
Cholesterol needs a ride.
Cholesterol is a waxy substance your body uses to build cells and make certain hormones. Because it doesn’t travel through blood on its own, it rides inside particles called lipoproteins.
Lp(a)
Lp(a) is an LDL-like particle with an extra protein attached, called apolipoprotein(a). A high level can add to heart and blood-vessel risk.
Genes and family
It can travel through generations.
Your Lp(a) level is mostly inherited. Healthy habits are great for overall health, but they usually don’t meaningfully lower Lp(a) itself.
If someone has a high result, their close relatives—such as parents, siblings, and children—may want to ask a healthcare professional about testing.
PARENT
SIBLING
CHILD
FAMILY
GENES
Understanding a result
Numbers need context.
50 mg/dL
or 125 nmol/LCommonly used U.S. risk-enhancing thresholds
or 125 nmol/LCommonly used U.S. risk-enhancing thresholds
Current guidance uses these levels as a point to discuss increased risk. The lab’s units matter: mg/dL and nmol/L are different measurement units and should not be converted with one fixed formula. A healthcare professional can interpret your result with your family history and other risk factors.
Remember: A high Lp(a) result doesn’t predict exactly what will happen to one person. It’s one part of the whole health picture.
What can help?
Focus on the whole heart-health picture.
There isn’t currently a medicine approved specifically to lower Lp(a) and proven to prevent heart events. Researchers are studying treatments designed to lower it. In the meantime, clinicians can help manage other risks.
Support your heart
Movement, nourishing food, sleep, and avoiding tobacco support overall cardiovascular health, even if they don’t change Lp(a).
Talk about LDL and more
A clinician may recommend managing LDL cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar, or other risks based on the person.
Ask about new research
Dedicated Lp(a)-lowering medicines are being studied in clinical trials. A clinician can explain what’s established and what’s still being researched.
Don’t start, stop, or change medicines based on this website. Ask a qualified healthcare professional about individual care.