All adults should be tested for dangerous blood fat linked to heart disease

Danish health experts are calling for routine screening of lipoprotein(a), a genetic fat particle that may be as harmful as cholesterol, Berlingske reports.

The Heart Association of Denmark estimates that one in five people has elevated levels of lipoprotein(a), significantly increasing their risk of cardiovascular disease. Unlike cholesterol, this fat particle remains largely unchanged throughout life and cannot be lowered through diet or lifestyle changes.

The push for testing follows new guidelines from the European Society of Cardiology, which recommend that all adults have their lipoprotein(a) levels measured at least once. Gunnar Gislason, research director at the Heart Association and a professor of cardiology at Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, supports the measure.

“Elevated lipoprotein(a) is hereditary and present from birth,” Gislason explained. “Since levels stay constant, a single test is sufficient.”

While no approved treatments currently exist to reduce lipoprotein(a), Gislason noted that clinical trials for new drugs are underway, with initial results expected by the end of the year. He still advises testing, as awareness of the risk allows individuals to address other modifiable factors.

“Even if you can’t change your lipoprotein(a) levels, you can still improve your blood pressure, cholesterol, diet, exercise, and smoking habits,” he said.