Genetic cholesterol particle Lp(a) linked to higher stroke and death risk in many adults
A study of over 20,000 participants found that very high levels of the inherited particle Lipoprotein(a) increase the chance of major cardiovascular events, especially stroke and cardiovascular death.
In a new analysis of plasma from 20,070 participants in the ACCORD, PEACE and SPRINT NIH trials, investigators measured Lipoprotein(a) using a standardized assay. Participants with Lp(a) levels at or above 175 nmo/L showed an independent association with increased major adverse cardiovascular events, cardiovascular mortality and stroke during a median follow-up of nearly four years. The elevated risk did not extend to myocardial infarction and was stronger among those with pre-existing heart disease.
The results were unveiled at the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions 2026 Scientific Sessions and the Canadian Association of Interventional Cardiology/Association Canadienne de cardiologie d'intervention Summit in Montreal. Experts highlighted that a simple, low-cost blood test can identify this genetic risk factor, allowing clinicians to intensify management of other heart-disease risk factors while new targeted therapies are being developed.
Why it matters
Identifying high Lp(a) can help doctors better prevent strokes and heart-related deaths in a large portion of the population.
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