The rules around cholesterol just got simpler, smarter and more personalized with an earlier start on primary prevention. On March 13, the American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association ... The New York Times: Confused About the New Cholesterol Guidelines?

Context Explanation

Here’s What to Know. New recommendations suggest that some people should start trying to lower their cholesterol as early as age 30. Researchers reviewed evolving ASCVD risk calculators and lipid management strategies for potential updates to international cholesterol guidelines. Lipoprotein (a), or Lp (a), is a cholesterol-carrying lipoprotein in your blood.

Insight Material

Your level is mostly inherited, and when it is high, it can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. Knowing your Lp (a) level can help you take steps that support your health and the health of the ones you love. Video: What is Lp (a)? Lipoprotein (a) or Lp (a) is one kind of LDL or low-density lipoprotein. LDLs (cholesterol or fats) can cause issues because they can make speed bumps of plaque that slow down your blood’s ability to flow through your arteries.

Final Conclusion

Enough of these speed bumps can give you a blood-stopping blockage. A fatty particle that circulates in the bloodstream, lipoprotein (a) is similar to LDL cholesterol but more dangerous. High levels of Lp (a), as it is commonly called, can double or even triple a person's risk of a heart attack. Lipoprotein (a) is a low-density lipoprotein that transports cholesterol in the blood. The lipoprotein (a) test — or Lp (a) test — determines the level of this lipoprotein in the blood, and...