Lipoprotein(a): The “New Kid on the Block” in Heart Health
When we talk about heart health, most people think of cholesterol, blood pressure, or blood sugar. But there’s a lesser-known cholesterol particle that doctors are now paying more attention to — and it could play a big role in your heart’s future.
It’s called Lipoprotein(a) or Lp(a).
What is Lipoprotein(a)?
Lipoprotein(a), often called Lp(a), is a type of cholesterol that circulates in your blood. Unlike the regular “good” or “bad” cholesterol (HDL and LDL), Lp(a) is inherited, which means your levels are mostly based on your genes, not your lifestyle.
Even if you eat well, exercise, and don’t smoke, you can still have high Lp(a) levels. And that’s what makes it tricky.
Why Should You Care About Lp(a)?
High levels of Lp(a) can:
- Increase your risk of heart attacks
- Raise your chances of stroke
- Contribute to hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis)
- Cause problems even if other cholesterol levels are normal
Many people don’t know they have high Lp(a) — because it’s not included in standard cholesterol tests. That’s why Lp(a) is being called the “new kid on the block” in heart screenings.
When Should You Get Tested?
You should talk to a preventive heart specialist like Dr. Tamkeen Kinah, Cardiologist in Dubai, if you:
- Have a family history of early heart disease or stroke
- Have had a heart attack or stroke at a young age
- Have normal cholesterol levels but still have heart issues
- Just want to be proactive about your heart health
Dr. Kinah can order an Lp(a) blood test — it’s a simple test that gives you big insights into your heart risk.
What Can Be Done About High Lp(a)?
While there’s no specific medication approved just for Lp(a) yet, knowing your levels helps doctors:
- Adjust your overall heart risk plan
- Use medications (like statins) more effectively
- Recommend lifestyle changes to reduce other risk factors
- Monitor you closely over time
The good news? Treatments are being developed, and clinical trials are already underway.
Why Consult Dr. Tamkeen Kinah in Dubai?
Dr. Tamkeen Kinah is a trusted preventive cardiologist in Dubai who focuses on early heart risk detection.
She offers:
- Personalized heart screenings
- Lp(a) testing and interpretation
- Prevention-first heart health plans
- Supportive, clear guidance you can actually follow
Taking a step today can prevent heart disease tomorrow.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
No. LDL is the “bad” cholesterol everyone talks about. Lipoprotein(a) is a separate type of cholesterol particle, and it’s mostly inherited.
Unfortunately, diet and exercise have little effect on Lp(a). But they still help reduce other risk factors like high LDL or blood pressure.
If you have a family history of heart disease or unexplained heart issues, yes — talk to your cardiologist about getting tested.
It’s a simple blood test, and many clinics now offer it. Check with your cardiologist or insurance provider for cost details.
Yes, since it’s genetic. Some doctors recommend testing in families with a history of early heart problems.
While Lp(a) levels are mostly genetic, eating the wrong foods can make your overall heart risk worse. Here’s what to avoid:
- Fried foods (like French fries or fried chicken)
- Processed meats (sausages, bacon, hot dogs)
- Sugary foods and drinks (sodas, candies, cakes)
- Trans fats (found in margarine, packaged snacks, baked goods)
- Excess red meat and full-fat dairy (butter, cream, cheese)
These foods raise LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol), which can worsen the effects of high Lp(a).
Several drinks may help support better cholesterol levels, especially LDL cholesterol:
- 🫖 Green tea – Rich in antioxidants that can help lower LDL
- 🧃 Pomegranate juice – May improve heart health and reduce oxidative stress
- 🥛 Oat milk – Contains beta-glucan, which helps lower cholesterol
- 🍋 Warm water with lemon – Helps digestion, may indirectly support heart health
- 💧 Plenty of water – Keeps your body balanced and supports metabolism
While these won’t directly lower Lp(a), they can support overall heart health.
Unfortunately, there’s no lifestyle change that directly lowers Lp(a) — it’s mostly genetic. But you can reduce your overall heart risk with:
- 🥗 Eating heart-healthy foods (like fish, fruits, veggies, whole grains)
- 🏃 Regular exercise (30 minutes a day, 5 times a week)
- 💊 Taking medications if prescribed (e.g., statins or PCSK9 inhibitors)
- 🚭 Quitting smoking
- 🧘♂️ Managing stress levels
- 🩺 Regular checkups with a cardiologist like Dr. Tamkeen Kinah
Some new treatments are in development to specifically lower Lp(a), so stay informed and ask your doctor about clinical trials.
High Lipoprotein(a) means you have a greater inherited risk of:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Blocked arteries (atherosclerosis)
Even if your LDL (“bad” cholesterol) and blood pressure are normal, high Lp(a) can quietly damage your arteries over time.
That’s why early detection and a good prevention plan with your doctor is so important.
No, eggs do not increase Lp(a) directly.
Eggs do contain cholesterol, but for most people, moderate egg consumption (1 egg a day) is safe and doesn’t significantly affect heart risk.
However, if you already have high cholesterol or Lp(a), it’s smart to:
- Eat eggs in moderation
- Avoid pairing them with butter, bacon, or cheese
- Choose boiled or poached eggs instead of fried eggs
Always talk to your cardiologist about your specific dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
Lipoprotein(a) might be new to the conversation, but it could explain heart risks that were previously overlooked.
If you’re serious about protecting your heart — or have a family history of heart problems — book a consultation with Dr. Tamkeen Kinah in Dubai.
💬 Your heart doesn’t wait. Why should you?
