Lipoprotein a, the Bad Super Sticky Cholesterol

In January 2024, at the age of 42, I underwent a life-saving quadruple bypass surgery and am now committed to raising awareness about the underlying cause of my condition, Lipoprotein a (LP little a), which significantly accelerated calcification in myself and numerous family members. This genetic predisposition led to my father's heart transplant (a Marine and Veteran) in his mid-fifties. Although gaining recognition in the U.S., the Lp(a) awareness is well-established in other countries such as Europe. However here in the U.S., many doctors remain unfamiliar with this vital health marker and blood test, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy and educating, especially since symptoms may be absent. Despite maintaining a healthy lifestyle and controlled heart disease risk factors, individuals may still have elevated Lp(a) levels. Additionally, advocating for a chest CT(A) scan may be necessary, as I passed all other heart tests despite having 75% to 99% occlusion in all major arteries.

Consulting your healthcare professional about screening is even more crucial if you have:

- Known family history of high Lp(a),
- Family or personal history of heart disease or
- Premature cardiovascular disease, or diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), an inherited condition causing poor LDL or bad cholesterol recycling.