Lipoprotein (a) levels and clinical decision-making: data from a Mexican cohort at a tertiary medical institution.

Abstract

Background and objective: Approximately 20% of the global population has a Lp(a) concentrations above 50 mg/dL (> 125nmol/L), yet many remain unaware of the associated cardiovascular risks. In Mexico, routine measurement of Lp(a) is uncommon. This study aimed to investigate the frequency of Lp(a) testing, and the clinical actions taken by physicians upon detecting elevated Lp(a) concentrations in patients at a tertiary medical institution.

Methods: Using an algorithm-based screening system, we reviewed the clinical and biochemical data of patients with Lp(a) measurements from 2019 to 2024. Data were retrieved from the laboratory information system and electronic health records. Complementary assessment data were obtained from the radiology and cardiology departments.

Results: Of the 150,083 individuals evaluated at the institution, only 830 (0.5%) underwent Lp(a) testing, with testing rates increasing from 0.037% in 2019 to 0.24% in 2023. Elevated Lp(a) concentrations (> 50 mg/dL) were found in 21% of patients, and 2.2% had concentrations > 180 mg/dL. Patients with elevated Lp(a) had significantly higher rates of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) (p < 0.001) and familial hypercholesterolemia (p < 0.004) than those with lower Lp(a) levels. Interestingly, diabetes prevalence was higher in those with Lp(a) < 4 mg/dL (51.5% vs. 33.4%, p < 0.001). Despite the cardiovascular risk, only 26% of patients with elevated Lp(a) levels received interventions to modify risk factors.

Conclusions: Lp(a) testing was infrequent in a tertiary medical setting. Clinical interventions to modify cardiovascular risk factors were insufficient among patients with elevated Lp(a). These findings highlight the need for greater awareness among healthcare providers and the development of comprehensive screening and management algorithms to mitigate Lp(a) -related cardiovascular risk.