1 in 5 people may carry this hidden genetic heart risk
New research presented at the SCAI 2026 sessions indicates that one in five people may have elevated levels of Lipoprotein(a), a genetic factor that increases cardiovascular risk. The study suggests that standard cholesterol treatments may not be sufficient for these individuals, necessitating more aggressive risk management.
Why it matters
Identifying this hidden genetic risk factor could lead to better preventative care and reduced heart disease mortality.
New findings from more than 20,000 patients across three major NIH studies suggest that elevated Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] may contribute to cardiovascular risk that remains even after standard treatment. The results indicate that people with high Lp(a) may benefit from more aggressive efforts to reduce other heart disease risk factors.
The late-breaking findings were presented at the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions (SCAI) 2026 Scientific Sessions and Canadian Association of Interventional Cardiology/Association Canadienne de cardiologie d'intervention (CAIC-ACCI) Summit in Montreal.
Lp(a) is a cholesterol-carrying particle found in the blood. It resembles LDL, often called "bad" cholesterol, but includes an additional protein that may make it more likely to contribute to cardiovascular disease.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in