The American Heart Association has launched the Lp(a) Community Health Centers Discovery Project, an initiative aimed at increasing awareness and screening for lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), a significant but often overlooked risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Elevated Lp(a) levels, which affect an estimated 20% of Americans, are genetically determined and not influenced by lifestyle changes, making early detection crucial for those at risk.
Supported by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, the project focuses on enhancing shared decision-making between healthcare professionals and patients in community health centers (CHCs) regarding Lp(a) screening and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk management. 'A simple, one-time Lp(a) test can give lifelong insight about overall heart disease risk,' said Dr. Kaavya Paruchuri, highlighting the importance of making this screening more accessible.
Ten CHCs across the U.S. have already joined the project in 2024, with plans to add ten more this year. These centers have successfully integrated new Lp(a) screening processes, leading to increased testing rates. The initiative builds on the lessons learned from the Lp(a) Discovery Project, which aimed to improve screening rates through professional and patient education in ten health systems nationwide.
Research underscores the critical role of Lp(a) in increasing the risk for ASCVD-related events, including heart attacks and strokes. Despite limited treatment options for high Lp(a), early detection can motivate individuals to adopt lifestyle changes and medication therapies to lower their overall heart disease risk. The project also addresses the widespread lack of awareness about Lp(a) among U.S. adults, with healthcare professionals being the primary source of information.
Community Health Centers interested in participating in this vital initiative can express their interest by completing a form available at heart.org/LpaDiscovery, with a deadline of August 15. This effort represents a significant step forward in the fight against cardiovascular disease, offering hope for early detection and intervention in at-risk populations.
