What if a simple test could uncover a hidden genetic risk for heart attack or stroke?

Lipoprotein(a), abbreviated as Lp(a), is a fat-protein particle in the blood that closely resembles LDL cholesterol, but with an added protein component: apolipoprotein(a). This makes Lp(a) particularly sticky, allowing it to build up easily in the walls of the arteries. Elevated Lp(a) levels are an independent, genetically determined risk factor for cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks, strokes, and aortic valve stenosis.
About 1 in 4 people have elevated Lp(a) levels—often unknowingly, since this isn’t tested routinely by general practitioners.

Who should take this test?

• Anyone wanting proactive insight into their cardiovascular health
• People with a family history of heart disease
• Individuals at risk for early stroke or heart attack
• People with high cholesterol or familial hypercholesterolemia

Why take this test?

• Genetic insight: Lp(a) levels are inherited and remain stable throughout life. A one-time test provides lifelong insight into your heart disease risk.
• Early detection: High Lp(a) increases your risk for heart disease, even if other cholesterol levels are normal.
• Informed decision-making: Knowing your Lp(a) levels can help you and your healthcare providers make informed decisions regarding your cardiovascular health.

How does the test process work?

1. Order the test easily online and receive it at home within a few days.
2. You’ll get a home test kit to collect a blood sample with a simple finger prick.
3. Send the sample to a certified medical lab using the prepaid return envelope (shipping costs included).
4. Your sample will be analyzed in the lab.
5. Within a few working days, you’ll receive your official test results in your personal online portal, along with a clear explanation of what the result means and what next steps you can take.

Lipoprotein(a)

Lipoprotein(a), also known as Lp(a), is a fat-like particle found in the blood. It is similar to LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol), but it has an extra protein structure attached to it called apolipoprotein(a). The amount of Lp(a) in the blood is mostly determined by your genes and stays fairly constant throughout life.

High levels of Lp(a) in the blood can contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries (atherosclerosis), as it promotes the formation of blockages and can interfere with the breakdown of blood clots. This increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack and stroke.

Unlike other types of cholesterol, Lp(a) is not easily influenced by diet, exercise, or standard cholesterol-lowering medications. If levels are elevated, doctors may focus more intensively on managing other risk factors—like blood pressure, LDL cholesterol, or lifestyle habits—to reduce overall risk.

What do the results mean?

• Normal: <0.30 g/l 
• Elevated: >0.30 g/l 

An elevated value means an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. You can discuss the result with your doctor. While Lp(a) itself can’t be lowered through lifestyle changes, there are strategies to reduce your overall risk—such as optimizing LDL cholesterol, blood pressure, and lifestyle habits.

Common symptoms:

High Lp(a) in itself does not produce any noticeable symptoms. The only way to know if you have it is through a blood test.

While high Lp(a) alone does not cause symptoms, it could lead to heart disease, stroke, or atherosclerosis in other blood vessels. These conditions can cause symptoms such as left-sided chest pain, pressure, or fullness; dizziness; slurred speech; or pain in the lower legs.

Since high Lp(a) has no direct symptoms, testing is the only way to detect it. Many people do not know they have high Lp(a) until they encounter heart problems, such as:

• A heart attack at a young age
• A stroke with no clear cause
• Early-onset cardiovascular disease
• Artery blockages despite a healthy lifestyle