Ghost Cholesterol Lp(a) – What is it?

By Craig Curtis, MD (U.S. Navy Veteran)

An estimated 20% to 30% of Americans (about 1 in 5 people) have high levels of lipoprotein (a) (known as Lp(a)). It is often referred to as the “TRIPLE THREAT” cholesterol because, if elevated, it can cause plaque buildup, blood vessel blockages, and inflammation. This leads to heart attacks, strokes and vascular disease. It can also cause aneurysms, hardening of the arteries, and heart valve problems.

Cardiologists have even nicknamed this type of cholesterol “GHOST CHOLESTEROL” because it is silent and dangerous. Unlike regular cholesterol that you can manage and lower with diet and exercise, your Lp(a) levels are genetically determined and, currently, cannot be lowered if elevated. However, if yours is elevated, there are steps you can take to lower your risk of cardiac events.

To determine your level, you will need to get a special blood test. The higher the result, the higher the risk. The good news? We will perform this test for you, free of charge! In fact, qualified individuals may be compensated $31 for their time. You may qualify for the free Lp(a) blood test if you have any 3 RISK FACTORS from this list:

Older age (Men over age 65 and women over age 70)
Family history of early heart attack/stent before age 55
High blood pressure on medication
Diabetes on medication
High “bad” cholesterol despite treatment
Current smoker
Poor kidney function

We are also looking for folks who have had a prior heart attack or stenting for coronary artery disease, prior stroke, high calcium artery score, or peripheral vascular disease.

Dr. Curtis is working with Dr. Couturier, the founding cardiologist at The Villages Heart and Vein Center, on an exciting clinical research trial to lower this cholesterol. This trial is attempting to determine if taking the study medication, Muvalaplin – a first-in-class oral pill designed to lower Lp(a) – leads to a reduced risk of heart attacks, strokes and blockages. A clinical trial just completed last year and presented at the American Heart Association meeting revealed the medication used in this trial reduced Lp(a) levels by a whopping 85% and there were no safety concerns.

This is a huge research study that will include 13,700 people from 800 research centers in 25 countries around the world. If you qualify, you will visit the study site here in The Villages where you will receive all study-related medical care and blood testing at no cost. You will also be compensated for your time at each study visit. Additionally, if you qualify, you will receive a full cholesterol panel with results you can take to your physician.