Lp(a)
Lipoprotein(a) or Lp(a) is a special kind of LDL-like particle whose level is almost entirely genetically determined. It does not change significantly with diet or lifestyle.
| Rating | Range | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Good | below 75 nmol/L | Within range. |
| Worth improving | 75 – 125 nmol/L | Borderline — a genetic risk factor. |
| Talk to a doctor | 125 nmol/L and above | High Lp(a) — increased cardiac risk; consult. |
Why it matters
High Lp(a) is an independent cardiovascular risk factor; EAS recommends measuring it once in a lifetime.
If it’s low
Low Lp(a) is favorable — without this additional inherited risk.
If it’s high
High Lp(a) means an inherited greater vascular risk — on its own, in addition to LDL. You do not lower it with lifestyle, so the point is stricter control of the OTHER factors (LDL, blood pressure, smoking).
What to do
Lp(a) is inherited — you do not lower it with food. If it is high, all the more carefully manage LDL, blood pressure and quit smoking; inform your family (inherited).
Read together with
LDL cholesterol · ApoB
Part of the guide: Cholesterol & lipids →
Articles about this marker
This content is for information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk to your doctor about your results.
Your number, not the average
Upload your report: we rate your exact value for your age and sex, show the source, and tell you what to do next.