Global Experts Urge Action on Hidden Genetic Risk for Heart Disease

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) claims nearly 18 million lives annually, surpassing all cancers combined. Despite its significance, a critical genetic risk factor associated with CVD remains largely unrecognized: elevated lipoprotein(a), commonly referred to as Lp(a). This condition affects approximately 1 in 5 people worldwide, yet it is seldom tested for or included in heart health strategies. As World Heart Day approaches on September 29, 2025, the Global Heart Hub and Novartis convened a webinar titled “Introducing the Little (a) with Big Consequences,” highlighting elevated Lp(a) as an underappreciated inherited risk factor for serious cardiovascular events, including heart attacks and strokes.

Recent survey data commissioned by Novartis reveals troubling trends in the Asia Pacific and Middle East regions. Findings show that 66% of individuals do not undergo routine heart tests and nearly 45% fail to recognize genetics as a significant risk factor for heart disease. Awareness of Lp(a) is particularly low; only 22% of respondents reported familiarity with testing for this biomarker, and a mere 7% had actually undergone the test.

“Cardiovascular disease remains the world’s leading cause of death, yet elevated Lp(a), a highly prevalent risk factor, is not even on most people’s radar,” stated Neil Johnson, Executive Director of Global Heart Hub. “That has to change, and the media plays a vital role in putting this hidden risk factor into the global heart health conversation.”

Empowering Individuals with Knowledge

The recent webinar highlighted the urgent need for increased awareness and testing of elevated Lp(a). Despite low current awareness, 58% of survey participants expressed interest in genetic testing, demonstrating a significant opportunity to inform individuals about their risks and empower them to take charge of their own heart health.

The session featured insights from various stakeholders, including patient advocacy groups and healthcare policy experts. Participants agreed on the necessity of expanding Lp(a) testing across the regions, integrating diagnosis and management of elevated Lp(a) into existing health systems, and fostering supportive policies. “Every test could mean a life saved, ensuring no heart is lost too soon,” remarked Judith Love, President of Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa at Novartis. “We must act now so that patients are no longer left in the dark about this ‘little (a) with big consequences’ but are instead empowered to take action on their own heart health.”

Understanding Lp(a) and Its Implications

Lipoprotein(a) is a type of lipoprotein that resembles low-density lipoprotein (LDL) but is differentiated by its apolipoprotein(a) component. This additional protein increases Lp(a)’s stickiness, contributing to arterial plaque build-up. Elevated levels of Lp(a) are closely linked to the progression of atherosclerosis, which narrows and hardens blood vessels, impeding blood flow and increasing the likelihood of blood clots. These clots can precipitate serious cardiovascular events, including heart attacks and strokes.

Notably, Lp(a) levels are predominantly determined by genetics, with about 90% of the variance attributed to hereditary factors. These levels are established early in life, typically by age five, and remain relatively stable throughout an individual’s life. As a result, lifestyle adjustments such as diet and exercise have minimal effects on Lp(a) concentrations.

In light of these findings, experts emphasize the need for public health initiatives aimed at increasing awareness and testing for elevated Lp(a) levels. The goal is not only to identify individuals at risk but also to implement effective management strategies to reduce the incidence of cardiovascular disease globally.

The Global Heart Hub, a non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for individuals affected by cardiovascular disease, plays a crucial role in raising awareness and promoting best practices among patient groups. With a network of over 150 heart patient organizations, the GHH aims to enhance understanding of heart conditions, improve patient outcomes, and foster healthy aging.

As healthcare systems worldwide strive to combat cardiovascular disease, the call to action from experts underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing elevated Lp(a). By integrating this knowledge into health policies and practices, there is potential to significantly reduce the burden of heart disease and improve the lives of millions.