Elevated lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is a genetically determined risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD); however, knowledge relating to Lp(a) levels and contribution to CVD risk in women (defined herein as female sex at birth) is evolving and often conflicting. Female sex hormones are important modulators of lipoprotein metabolism, and Lp(a) levels are influenced by exogenous and endogenous estrogen levels. Thus, lifetime fluctuations of Lp(a) are observed, primarily during pregnancy and postmenopause. Although approved pharmacological Lp(a)-lowering therapies are not yet available, elevated Lp(a) is actionable now and strategies can be undertaken to reduce overall CVD risk. It is imperative that knowledge of the risks associated with elevated Lp(a) levels in women is appropriately conveyed to health care professionals to ensure optimal management of CVD risk in real-world practice. Moreover, further research in the field of Lp(a) and women's cardiovascular health is vital for the future of CVD prevention.
Michos et al. (Tue,) studied this question.