Due to changing lifestyles, we are facing a variety of heart-related problems. When it comes to heart health, people typically focus on cholesterol levels like LDL, HDL, and triglycerides. Most people assume that if their cholesterol levels are normal, their hearts are completely safe. However, in recent years, several cases have been reported where people have suffered heart attacks at a young age, even though their normal cholesterol levels were not significant. This is why doctors are now focusing not only on LDL, HDL, and triglycerides, but also recommending screening for hidden risks that may not be visible in routine tests. Experts say that sometimes, problems exist within the body that are not visible in reports, but can have a serious impact on heart health.
According to doctors, Lipoprotein(a) or Lp(a) is a specific type of cholesterol particle that resembles LDL (bad cholesterol) but has an additional protein attached. This is why it can accelerate the accumulation of fat in the blood vessels. Importantly, Lp(a) is not measured in a standard lipid profile test. In such a situation, a person’s cholesterol report may be normal, but their heart may still be at risk.
Doctors in India are observing a worrying trend. Many people with normal cholesterol reports are suffering heart attacks in their 30s and 40s. The National Institutes of Health believes that elevated Lp(a) levels due to genetic factors may be a major factor. This factor is largely influenced by genetics, so diet or exercise have limited effect on it.
According to experts, the incidence of premature heart disease is rapidly increasing in India. Several reports indicate that a large proportion of total deaths in the country are related to heart disease. Worryingly, many patients are experiencing heart attacks 10 to 15 years earlier than in Western countries. Genetic predisposition, diabetes, high blood pressure, an inactive lifestyle, and hidden lipid markers such as Lp(a) can increase this risk.
Doctors say that people with a family history of heart attack, stroke, or heart disease at a young age should have an Lp(a) test at least once. Additionally, those with high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and poor lifestyle habits should also take heart screening seriously. Although it is not considered easy to directly reduce Lp(a), knowing this can help better control other risk factors such as LDL cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar.