Digestly

Dec 15, 2024

What is Lp(a) and what is its relationship with cardiovascular disease risk? | Benoît Arsenault

Peter Attia MD - What is Lp(a) and what is its relationship with cardiovascular disease risk? | Benoît Arsenault

The discussion begins with the epidemiology of lipoprotein(a) (LPA), highlighting its prevalence in different ethnic groups, with African ancestry individuals having the highest levels and East Asians the lowest. Approximately 20% of the global population has elevated LPA levels, increasing their cardiovascular risk. LPA was discovered in 1963, and early studies in the 70s and 80s linked it to cardiovascular events. However, due to poor assay quality, many studies in the 90s and early 2000s failed to confirm this association, leading to a decline in research interest. The assays used were not accurate, often overestimating larger LPA isoforms and underestimating smaller, more dangerous ones. Recent advancements have improved assay accuracy, reigniting interest in LPA research. Genetic studies in 2009 confirmed the link between high LPA levels and cardiovascular events, further boosting research. The video explains the genetic basis of LPA, its structure, and the challenges in measuring it accurately due to its complex nature. Modern assays now measure LPA in nanomoles per liter, providing a more accurate count of LPA particles, which is crucial for assessing cardiovascular risk.

Key Points:

  • Lipoprotein(a) (LPA) levels vary by ethnicity, with 20% of the global population at higher cardiovascular risk due to elevated levels.
  • Early studies linking LPA to cardiovascular events were inconclusive due to poor assay quality, but recent genetic studies confirm the association.
  • Improved assays now measure LPA in nanomoles per liter, offering more accurate cardiovascular risk assessment.
  • LPA's complex structure and genetic variability pose challenges in measurement and understanding its role in cardiovascular health.
  • Research interest in LPA has increased significantly since 2009, driven by genetic studies and improved measurement techniques.
View Full Content
Upgrade to Plus to unlock complete episodes, key insights, and in-depth analysis
Starting at $5/month. Cancel anytime.