What Is Lipoprotein(a) and Why Does It Matter for Heart Health?

March 27, 2026

Jason Ferrier

New AMA/AHA Lipoprotein (a) Testing Guidelines

New guidelines from the American Medical Association (AMA) and American Heart Association (AHA) recommend that all adults (age 19 and up) test their Lipoprotein(a) levels at least once. Elevated Lp(a) can increase a person's risk for heart disease as much as 40%. Unlike other types of cholesterol, Lp(a) is not typically affected by factors like diet and lifestyle. Knowing your Lp(a) levels can help determine if you need to put extra focus on other heart health factors, such as lowering LDL (the bad cholesterol).

What is Lp(a) blood test?

Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is a type of cholesterol particle in the blood that carries a high risk for cardiovascular disease. High levels of Lp (a) can cause inflammation, blood clots, and plaque buildup in arteries, significantly increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke. Unlike other types of cholesterol, Lp (a) is mostly inherited. A person's Lp (a) levels are typically set by the time they turn 5 and will remain constant for the rest of their life. A Lipoprotein (a) blood test measures your Lp (a) level and compares it to a normal reference range. If your Lp (a) levels are above the normal range, talk to your doctor to see what precautions you should take to protect your heart health.

Can You Lower Lipoprotein(a)?

Lipoprotein(a) levels are mostly determined by genetics. Lowering Lp (a) through lifestyle changes like diet and exercise is normally not very effective. Some studies have shown that intensive exercise, weight loss, and a diet rich in natural plant-based foods may have some impact in lowering Lp (a). There are some medications that can help to lower Lp (a). You should connect with your doctor to determine if these treatments are appropriate.

Why Standard Cholesterol Tests Miss Lipoprotein(a)

While Lp(a) is similar to LDL, it is not measured by most cholesterol tests. Standard cholesterol or lipid screenings measure total cholesterol, LDL (bad cholesterol), HDL (good cholesterol), and triglycerides. Lipoprotein (a) requires a separate specific test to measure. Because it is not usually affected by lifestyle choices such as diet and activity level, many doctors don't check for Lp (a) unless a person has specific risk factors.

Who should get Lp(a) tested??

Your Lipoprotein (a) level is primarily a genetic condition. The people most at risk for high Lp(a) are those with a family history of heart disease. People of African or South Asian descent tend to have a higher predisposition for elevated Lp (a) levels. Conditions such as Chronic Kidney Disease and Thyroid Dysfunction can also contribute to higher Lp (a) levels. Some women experience an increase in their Lp (a) during menopause. Even if you are not in a high-risk group, guidelines from the AHA recommend that everyone take an Lp(a) blood test at least once in their life. There is no harm in testing multiple times, but most people's Lp(a) levels will not change significantly over time.

Where to get a Lipoprotein(a) blood test near you

Request A Test is a provider of direct-to-consumer lab testing. This allows anyone to order the testing they need to protect their health without having to schedule a doctor's appointment or get approval from an insurance provider. We offer a full selection of heart health tests, including the Lipoprotein (a) blood test. With over 7,000 testing locations in the USA, everyone can get lab testing that is convenient and affordable. Measuring your Lp (a) levels can provide important information about your risk for heart disease. Don't wait. Take charge of your health today. TO get started, just place an order online or call our team at 888-732-2348.

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