UPDATE: Global cardiovascular experts are sounding the alarm over a hidden genetic threat that affects 1 in 5 people worldwide. Elevated lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is linked to a staggering 18 million deaths from cardiovascular disease (CVD) each year, surpassing all cancers combined. This urgent call to action was made during a recent webinar hosted by the Global Heart Hub and Novartis on September 24, 2025, ahead of World Heart Day on September 29.
The shocking reality is that most people remain unaware of Lp(a)’s significant role in heart health. A new survey across the Asia Pacific and Middle East reveals that a staggering 66% of individuals skip routine heart checks, while nearly half, or 45%, do not recognize the genetic factors contributing to heart disease. Alarmingly, only 22% of respondents had ever heard of Lp(a), and a mere 7% had actually been tested for it.
“Cardiovascular disease remains the world’s leading cause of death, yet elevated Lp(a), a highly prevalent risk factor, is not even on most people’s radar,” stated Neil Johnson, Executive Director of Global Heart Hub. He emphasized the critical need for greater awareness and media engagement to highlight this underrecognized condition.
The webinar featured impactful stories from patient advocates, including Ram Khandelwal, who survived a heart attack at age 33 and now advocates for heart health awareness in India. “We need to raise the alarm on the dangers of elevated Lp(a), especially in communities that are unaware of this risk,” Khandelwal said.
Medical professionals also shared insights on the genetic implications of Lp(a) testing. Prof. Gerald Watts from the University of Western Australia explained how elevated levels of Lp(a) contribute to cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes. The urgency for policy change was echoed by Nicola Bedlington, Senior Policy Advisor for the Lp(a) International Task Force. She urged policymakers to include Lp(a) testing in national CVD guidelines to address these critical care gaps.
Furthermore, Prof. Zanfina Ademi highlighted the economic benefits of integrating Lp(a) testing into healthcare systems, stressing its cost-effectiveness and potential for improving public health outcomes.
Despite low awareness, the survey indicates a glimmer of hope, with 58% of respondents expressing interest in genetic testing for heart disease. This presents an opportunity to empower individuals with the knowledge needed to take control of their heart health.
As experts concluded the webinar, there was a unified call to action to expand Lp(a) testing throughout the Asia Pacific and Middle East regions. Judith Love, President at Novartis for the Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, reinforced the message: “Every test taken could mean a life is saved, ensuring no heart is lost too soon.”
With CVD remaining the top global killer, this urgent message could mean the difference between life and death for millions. Awareness and action are critical now to ensure that elevated Lp(a) is recognized as a vital component of cardiovascular health strategies worldwide.
For more information on Lp(a) testing and its importance, visit the official Global Heart Hub and Novartis websites.
