Autoimmune patients may be facing a hidden heart health threat—elevated levels of lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a). According to a recent study published in Atherosclerosis, higher Lp(a) concentrations are independently associated with a significantly greater risk of cardiovascular events among individuals with autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and psoriasis.
What Is Lipoprotein(a)?
Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is a genetically inherited form of cholesterol that has long been associated with increased risk of atherosclerosis, stroke, and heart attacks. What sets Lp(a) apart is its resistance to traditional cholesterol-lowering therapies and its uniquely inflammatory profile.
Unlike LDL (bad cholesterol), Lp(a) carries a specific protein called apolipoprotein(a) that can make it more atherogenic—meaning it’s more likely to contribute to artery-clogging plaque. For patients with autoimmune conditions, where chronic inflammation is already a concern, elevated Lp(a) could amplify cardiovascular damage.
What the Study Found
The Atherosclerosis study tracked over 11,000 patients with autoimmune disorders and found that:
- Those with higher Lp(a) levels had a 29% higher risk of major cardiovascular events.
- The association remained independent of traditional risk factors, including LDL cholesterol.
- Lp(a) may interact with systemic inflammation, worsening vascular damage in autoimmune patients.
This research is a wake-up call. Autoimmune patients already face elevated cardiovascular risk, and Lp(a) may be a missing piece in the prevention puzzle.
Why This Matters for Early Detection
At UDS Health, we believe in proactive, personalized prevention. This study underscores why advanced cardiovascular screening—including Lp(a) testing—should be part of early detection protocols, especially for those with chronic autoimmune conditions.
Our comprehensive ultrasound-based screenings already help detect silent cardiovascular threats. Now, with insights like these, we’re helping our partners expand their diagnostic approach.
Should You Be Tested for Lp(a)?
You should consider an Lp(a) test if you:
- Have an autoimmune condition (RA, lupus, psoriasis, etc.)
- Have a family history of early heart disease or stroke
- Have persistently elevated LDL despite treatment
- Are undergoing preventive health screenings
The test is a simple blood draw, and results can help personalize your cardiovascular risk profile.
What You Can Do Today
- Ask your provider about Lp(a): It’s not included in routine panels, but testing is widely available.
- Explore ultrasound-based cardiovascular screenings: Non-invasive, fast, and effective at identifying structural changes in the heart and arteries.
- Manage inflammation proactively: Anti-inflammatory diets, lifestyle changes, and medication adherence are key.
- Partner with a preventive health provider: Like UDS Health, who understands how emerging research impacts real-world detection.
Final Thoughts
This latest study makes one thing clear: for autoimmune patients, Lp(a) may be a silent but powerful contributor to heart disease. With early testing and targeted prevention strategies, we can shift from reactive care to proactive protection.
Source:
Association of Lipoprotein(a) with cardiovascular events among individuals with autoimmune conditions — Atherosclerosis Journal, 2025
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