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Lipoprotein(a) Test

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Approximately 1 in 4 people worldwide have elevated levels of Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a)—a lesser-known but significant risk factor for heart disease. Unlike many other risk factors, Lp(a) levels are determined by genetics and cannot be modified through diet or lifestyle changes, making it a silent risk even in otherwise healthy individuals. This test measures the amount of Lp(a) in your blood- a cholesterol-carrying particle that can contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries. Use this simple at-home test to gain a clearer understanding of your heart disease risk.

Test method: Finger prick test

What do we test for?

Lipoprotein(a)
Instructional video
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  • Analyzed in ISO-certified laboratory
  • Test results often available within 1 business day after reaching laboratory

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About the Test
Symptoms
Summary of Biomarkers
Results
FAQ
About the Test

What if a simple test could uncover a hidden genetic risk for heart attack or stroke?
Lipoprotein(a), abbreviated as Lp(a), is a fat-protein particle in the blood that closely resembles LDL cholesterol, but with an added protein component: apolipoprotein(a). This makes Lp(a) particularly sticky, allowing it to build up easily in the walls of the arteries. Elevated Lp(a) levels are an independent, genetically determined risk factor for cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks, strokes, and aortic valve stenosis.
About 1 in 4 people have elevated Lp(a) levels—often unknowingly, since this isn’t tested routinely by general practitioners.

Who should take this test?

  • Anyone wanting proactive insight into their cardiovascular health
  • People with a family history of heart disease
  • Individuals at risk for early stroke or heart attack
  • People with high cholesterol or familial hypercholesterolemia

Why take this test?

  • Genetic insight: Lp(a) levels are inherited and remain stable throughout life. A one-time test provides lifelong insight into your heart disease risk.
  • Early detection: High Lp(a) increases your risk for heart disease, even if other cholesterol levels are normal.
  • Informed decision-making: Knowing your Lp(a) levels can help you and your healthcare providers make informed decisions regarding your cardiovascular health.

 

How does the test process work?

  1. Order the test easily online and receive it at home within a few days.
  2. You’ll get a home test kit to collect a blood sample with a simple finger prick.
  3. Send the sample to a certified medical lab using the prepaid return envelope (shipping costs included).
  4. Your sample will be analyzed in the lab.
  5. Within a few working days, you’ll receive your official test results in your personal online portal, along with a clear explanation of what the result means and what next steps you can take.
Symptoms

Common symptoms:
High Lp(a) in itself does not produce any noticeable symptoms. The only way to know if you have it is through a blood test.

While high Lp(a) alone does not cause symptoms, it could lead  heart disease, stroke, or atherosclerosis in other blood vessels. These conditions can cause symptoms such as left-sided chest pain, pressure, or fullness; dizziness; slurred speech; or pain in the lower legs.

Since high Lp(a) has no direct symptoms, testing is the only way to detect it. Many people do not know they have high Lp(a) until they encounter heart problems, such as:

  • A heart attack at a young age
  • A stroke with no clear cause
  • Early-onset cardiovascular disease
  • Artery blockages despite a healthy lifestyle
Summary of Biomarkers

Lipoprotein(a)

Lipoprotein(a), also known as Lp(a), is a fat-like particle found in the blood. It is similar to LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol), but it has an extra protein structure attached to it called apolipoprotein(a). The amount of Lp(a) in the blood is mostly determined by your genes and stays fairly constant throughout life.

High levels of Lp(a) in the blood can contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries (atherosclerosis), as it promotes the formation of blockages and can interfere with the breakdown of blood clots. This increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack and stroke.

Unlike other types of cholesterol, Lp(a) is not easily influenced by diet, exercise, or standard cholesterol-lowering medications. If levels are elevated, doctors may focus more intensively on managing other risk factors—like blood pressure, LDL cholesterol, or lifestyle habits—to reduce overall risk.

 

Results

What do the results mean?

  • Normal: <0.30 g/l 
  • Elevated: >0.30 g/l

 

An elevated value means an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. You can discuss the result with your doctor. While Lp(a) itself can’t be lowered through lifestyle changes, there are strategies to reduce your overall risk—such as optimizing LDL cholesterol, blood pressure, and lifestyle habits.

Frequently asked questions

Can I lower my Lp(a) level?

Lifestyle changes such as diet or exercise have little effect on Lp(a) levels. However, you can reduce your overall risk for heart disease by managing other contributing factors, such as maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, and managing high blood pressure and diabetes can all help reduce your risk of heart disease.

Is one test enough?

Yes. Because Lp(a) is genetically determined and generally remains stable over time, one test is typically sufficient for life.

What should I do if my Lp(a) value is high?

Discuss your test results with your GP or cardiologist. Further testing or treatment may be needed, and your healthcare provider may have specific advice for you based on your medical history and other cardiovascular risk factors.

Will my health insurer reimburse this test?

No, at this time Homed-IQ does not have any reimbursement agreements with health insurers. In the Netherlands, if you test through the GGD because you fall into a risk group, testing for an STI is free. The cost of testing for STIs at the GP will be deducted from your health insurance deductible (own risk). The coverage of subsequent costs depends on your health insurance. Ask your health insurance company what exactly is covered. Are you not in a risk group or is it too busy at the GGD? Then you can test at your GP or with Homed-IQ. Currently, Homed-IQ has no agreements with health insurers.

What is Lp(a)?

Lp(a), or Lipoprotein(a), is a type of fat in the blood that can increase the risk of heart disease. It is similar in structure to LDL cholesterol ("bad cholesterol"), but with an additional protein (apolipoprotein a) attached, making it more likely to cause plaque buildup and blood clots in arteries. High Lp(a) levels are a risk factor for heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems.

How does it work?

Order your test
After you have placed the order, your test kit will be delivered within a few days in discreet packaging.
Activate and take your sample

After creating an account and activating your test online, collect the test sample and return it to the lab using the prepaid shipping label. Homed-IQ tests can be placed in a regular mailbox.

Receive your test result

A certified laboratory will analyze your test. When ready, your results will be published to your account, including a PDF laboratory report that can be brought to your GP for follow-up care.

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