Lipoprotein a

[HelenV]

I just had annual exam with new doctor and lipoprotein a is 34.  Normal <30.  Can you tell me what this means and how can I bring it down.  my cholesterol numbers are excellent according to doctor:

total cholesterol:  197
HDL:  74
Triglycerides: 58
LDL:  111
Ratio:  2.7

Cardio CRP:  1.17
Homocysteine:  6
Liipoprotein a:  34

Thank you

[kenkeith]

Currently, there is no medicine or drugs that to effectively lower your Lp(a). A high Lp(a) is genetically linked.  Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.

The test is usually given as a marker for risk of heart disease. High levels of lipoproteins can increase the risk of heart disease....check the risk of atherosclerosis (hardening of arteries), stroke, and heart attack.

Mayo Clinic: "Some experts suggest, however, that high levels of lp(a) may merely be markers of late-stage atherosclerosis, not a cause. Because concentrations of lipoprotein(a) are usually inherited, they do not respond to dietary or lifestyle changes. At this time, however, few experts are recommending drug treatments to reduce lp(a) levels. Older women, but not men, appear to be at greater risk for high lp(a) levels and their consequences.