lipids · Lp(a)
Lipoprotein(a)
An inherited LDL-like particle that independently raises cardiovascular risk. Levels are mostly set by genetics and stay fairly stable for life, so it's usually measured once. Diet and lifestyle have little effect on it.
This page is general wellness education, not medical advice. Your own lab’s reference range and your clinician’s interpretation always take precedence.
Typical reference range
| Group | General range |
|---|---|
| Adults | Lower risk < ~75 nmol/L (≈ <30 mg/dL); ≥125 nmol/L raises risk |
Optimal-band note: Lp(a) is largely genetic and lifelong; <75 nmol/L (≈<30 mg/dL) is generally considered low risk. Reported in nmol/L (particle count) or mg/dL (mass) depending on the lab — they are not interchangeable.
Units: nmol/L. Ranges vary by lab and assay — read yours against the range printed on your own report.
What high Lipoprotein(a) can mean
- Genetics (the main driver)
- Certain kidney conditions
- Hypothyroidism
- Estrogen decline
What low Lipoprotein(a) can mean
- Genetics (low producers)