Why does serum lipoprotein (a) increase after a physical examination?

This is the 4445th article of Da Yi Xiao Hu

After the physical examination, Xiao Wang found that his lipoprotein (a) in the blood lipids had been elevated for two consecutive years. He looked thin, but why was this happening? Today, let's talk about an indicator closely related to cardiovascular health - lipoprotein (a), and explore its impact on our health.

1. What is lipoprotein(a)?

Lipoprotein (a) is a particle in the blood composed of lipids and proteins. It is a special lipoprotein that is related to cholesterol. It is partly related to the increased risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.

2. Why does lipoprotein (a) increase?

The increase of lipoprotein (a) is mainly affected by genetic factors, that is, it is related to heredity. If there are patients with cardiovascular disease in your family, especially parents or close relatives, then you may be more likely to have elevated lipoprotein (a). Other factors include obesity, high-cholesterol diet, smoking, lack of exercise, diabetes, etc. These factors may interact with genes to further increase lipoprotein (a) levels.

3. What impact does elevated lipoprotein (a) have on our health?

High levels of lipoprotein (a) are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis, which can cause cholesterol to deposit in blood vessels and form plaques, leading to narrowing and blockage of blood vessels, thereby increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. It should be noted that elevated lipoprotein (a) is not the only indicator of cardiovascular disease risk. We should also consider other factors, such as total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), to obtain a more comprehensive risk assessment.

4. So how can we prevent it?

1. If you have a family history or other risk factors, regular cardiovascular health checks are recommended, including testing of lipoprotein (a) levels.

2. A healthy lifestyle is essential, including a balanced diet, reducing the intake of high-cholesterol foods, and increasing the intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats.

3. Actively participate in physical exercise and maintain a proper weight.

4. Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake.

5. For high-risk groups, use medication to lower lipoprotein (a) levels as prescribed by your doctor.

It turns out that Xiao Wang's condition was caused by genetic factors. In summary, elevated lipoprotein (a) may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, but it is not a single risk indicator. Understanding one's own risk factors, adopting an active and healthy lifestyle, and working with a doctor to develop a personalized prevention and control plan are the keys to maintaining cardiovascular health. Prevention is better than cure. Caring about your own heart health will make your life better!

The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University

Written by: Emergency Department Nurse Zheng Xin

Supervisor: Pei Honghong, Chief Physician of Emergency Department