Lp(a)
Also known as Lipoprotein(a)
What it is
Lp(a) is an LDL-like particle with an extra protein attached that makes it more prone to promoting clotting and inflammation inside artery walls. Unlike most cardiovascular risk factors, your Lp(a) level is set almost entirely by genetics and stays roughly constant throughout adult life.
Why it matters
About one in five people carry a genetically elevated Lp(a) level, a cardiovascular risk factor a standard lipid panel will never surface because it isn't part of one. Because Lp(a) doesn't move meaningfully with diet, exercise, or most medications, it typically only needs to be measured once in a lifetime, but knowing the number matters: an elevated result reclassifies overall cardiovascular risk and often changes how aggressively other modifiable factors like LDL and blood pressure should be managed. It's an area of active drug development, with Lp(a)-lowering therapies currently in clinical trials, but the first step is simply knowing where your number stands.
Lp(a) is one of the markers in Zaro's Signal panel and every tier above it.
This information is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always talk to a physician about your specific results and health history.
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