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The Family Heart Foundation, a non-profit research and advocacy organization to lead research and education, focusing on genetic dyslipidemias, has launched the Lp(a) AW(a)RE initiative to engage key US healthcare stakeholders in advancing awareness, screening and diagnosis of high Lipoprotein(a) – also known as Lp(a).
It is estimated that approximately 20 per cent of the US population has a genetic mutation for high Lp(a), yet only 1 per cent in the general population, and 2 per cent with established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), have been tested for Lp(a).
Eli Lilly and Company is the initial sponsor of the Family Heart Foundation’s two-year Lp(a) AW(a)RE initiative. Designed for primary care clinicians, healthcare insurance providers and policy makers, Lp(a) AW(a)RE includes educational symposia presented at professional conferences across the US. In addition, many of these events will also offer free Lp(a) screenings and educational materials.
“Cardiovascular disease is responsible for one out of three deaths in America today,” said Katherine Wilemon, founder and chief executive officer of the Family Heart Foundation. “As a research, education and advocacy organization focused on prevention of premature cardiovascular disease, we are committed to accelerating management of genetic risk factors, such as high lipoprotein(a). The Lp(a) Aw(a)RE initiative provides education through personal stories, presentations by medical experts, and Lp(a) screenings with the goal of dramatically increasing understanding, screening and diagnosis of this common and highly under-diagnosed genetic condition.”
High lipoprotein(a) is a triple threat for early onset cardiovascular disease because it causes clotting, clogging, and inflammation in the arteries that feed the heart, brain and extremities. Individuals with high Lp(a) experience earlier and more aggressive onset of ASCVD than the general population, many in the prime of their lives. To date, most of these individuals remain far from LDL-C treatment goals and at-risk for primary or secondary ASCVD events. These findings indicate the need to diagnose high Lp(a) and to achieve LDL-cholesterol treatment goals early in life.
Today, Lp(a) is not included in a standard lipid panel, clinician awareness and understanding of Lp(a) is low and even though research shows that aggressive management of other cardiovascular risk factors reduces risk in people with high Lp(a), many payers do not cover Lp(a) screening.
As part of the Lp(a) AW(a)RE initiative, in early 2026, the Family Heart Foundation also plans to launch an “Lp(a) Awareness to Action” campaign, a dedicated consumer website, and free at-home screening for Lp(a) which includes one-on-one support from its Care Navigation Center.
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