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Atherosclerosis in Indians and lipoprotein (a)
1Department of Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi.
The Journal of the Association of Physicians of India
|September 22, 2000
Summary
Indians have a higher risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) due to specific lipid profiles and elevated lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] levels. Lp(a) is a key factor in early atherosclerosis development in this population.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Genetics
- Public Health
Background:
- Indian populations exhibit a predisposition to coronary artery disease (CAD) compared to other ethnic groups.
- Their atherogenic lipid profile is characterized by high triglycerides (TG) and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), not typically hypercholesterolemia.
- Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is an independent, inheritable risk factor for atherosclerosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of elevated Lp(a) levels in the increased prevalence of CAD among Indian populations.
- To highlight Lp(a) as a significant contributor to early and extensive atherosclerosis in Indians.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of lipid profiles in Indian subjects, focusing on TG, HDL-c, and Lp(a) levels.
- Comparison of Lp(a) levels between Indian subjects and their offspring with general populations.
- Assessment of Lp(a)'s role as a prothrombotic agent in atherogenesis.
Main Results:
- Indian subjects demonstrate significantly higher Lp(a) levels compared to other ethnic groups.
- Elevated Lp(a) is strongly associated with early and extensive atherosclerosis in Indians.
- Lp(a) contributes to atherogenesis and acts as a prothrombotic agent.
Conclusions:
- Lp(a) plays a substantial role in the development of CAD in Indian populations.
- Routine inclusion of Lp(a) testing is recommended for coronary risk evaluation in Indians.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the adverse effects of Lp(a).