What Is Lp(a) and Why Does It Matter?
Lp(a) is a genetically inherited type of LDL particle with a unique structure that makes itmore dangerous:
It’s stickier, meaning it can attach to artery walls more easily
It fuels inflammation and increases blood clot risk
It’s over 90% genetically determined, meaning diet and exercise won’t lower it
Approximately 1 in 5 people have elevated Lp(a). And most have no idea.
That’s because Lp(a) isn’t included in routine cholesterol tests. Unless you or your doctor specifically orders it, you may never know it’s elevated.
Why Is High Lp(a) So Concerning?
Because it significantly increases your risk of:
And since it’s inherited, if you have a high Lp(a), your siblings, children, and maybe parentsshould be tested too.
Why Most People with High Lp(a) Still Get Missed
Most doctors don’t test for Lp(a) - or know what to do with it when it’s elevated. However, while there is not a proven treatment to lower Lp(a) that also lowers the risk of heart attack and stroke (yet - several treatments are being evaluated), that does not mean there’s nothing to do.
What We Do When Lp(a) Is High
At HealthspanMD, we start by looking deeper.
If your Lp(a) is elevated, we:
Order advanced imaging (carotid ultrasound, CT angiogram) to see if plaque is already building
Measure ApoB, a marker that tells us how many atherogenic particles are circulating
Assess inflammation, insulin resistance, VO₂ max, and other longevity markers
Develop a personalized, proactive strategy to lower your overall cardiovascular risk
Even though Lp(a) can’t be directly lowered (yet), we have over 20 years of experience treating people with high Lp(a) and we’ve learned that aggressively addressing root causes of artery disease with a personalized plan is a very effective strategy.
Don’t Guess. Test.
A simple blood test is all it takes to find out your Lp(a). And once you know? You can take action.
Most people with high Lp(a) have no symptoms. But by the time symptoms show up, damage may already be done.
We don’t wait for disaster. We build a plan to prevent it.
Real Patients, Real Progress
Robert Steinberg
An Ironman athlete with a rigorous training schedule, Robert believed he was the picture of health... until he suffered a heart attack.
Even after being warned about his cholesterol, Robert remained in denial. But his wake-upcall came fast, leading him to Mayo Clinic and eventually to HealthspanMD.
What made Robert's case unique? He had elevated Lipoprotein(a), a condition unaddressed by standard cholesterol management. Traditional statins caused him body aches, but with the help of the HealthspanMD team, he transitioned to Repatha, a PCSK9inhibitor better suited for Lp(a).
Beyond medication, Robert embraced cardiac rehab and nutrition planning. Under a Healthspan Coach's guidance, he brought down rising blood pressure without extreme diets, showing how strategic nutrition matters, even for the fittest individuals.
Even the healthiest among us aren’t immune to hidden risks. But with the right plan, youcan take control of your future. Listen to his podcast with Dr. Hurst Spotify | Apple
What to Expect From a Real Prevention Plan
Advanced testing to understand your risk and root causes.
A personalized plan built specifically for you and based on your goals and preferences.
Ongoing expert support and a system designed to get results – and eliminate the risk of heart attack.
This isn’t disease management. This is proactive prevention.
Want to Learn More?
Podcast: 10 Things You Need to Know About High Lp(a) Dr. Robert Todd Hurst breaks down the top facts, risks, and strategies for managing elevated Lp(a).
Listen NowKnow Your Lp(a) — Know Your Future
If you haven’t had your Lp(a) tested, now’s the time. Schedule your personalized Longevity Assessment to get the full picture—and a real plan for the future.
Book Your Assessment Now