Lipoprotein(a) and Women's Cardiovascular Health: A Review

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Genetics
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Elevated lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a significant genetically determined risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD).
• Existing knowledge on Lp(a) levels and CVD risk specifically in women is evolving and sometimes contradictory.
• Female sex hormones critically influence lipoprotein metabolism, affecting Lp(a) levels through endogenous and exogenous estrogen exposure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize current knowledge on lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] levels and their contribution to cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in women.
• To highlight the impact of hormonal fluctuations on Lp(a) levels throughout a woman's life.
• To emphasize the need for improved understanding and communication of Lp(a) risks among healthcare professionals for effective CVD risk management in women.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in women.
• Analysis of the influence of female sex hormones on Lp(a) metabolism and levels.
• Discussion of current and future strategies for managing elevated Lp(a) and associated CVD risk.

Main Results:

• Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a key genetic risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD).
• Lp(a) levels in women are modulated by female sex hormones, showing significant fluctuations during pregnancy and postmenopause.
• While specific Lp(a)-lowering therapies are pending, elevated Lp(a) is considered actionable for CVD risk reduction.

Conclusions:

• Healthcare professionals must be informed about the risks of elevated lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] in women to optimize cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk management.
• Further research into Lp(a) and women's cardiovascular health is essential for advancing CVD prevention strategies.
• Despite the absence of approved Lp(a)-lowering drugs, proactive CVD risk reduction strategies are available and necessary for women with elevated Lp(a).