Canadian doctors recommend routine Lipoprotein(a) screening for heart attack risk
Updated
Updated · CBC Sports · Apr 26
Canadian doctors recommend routine Lipoprotein(a) screening for heart attack risk
10 articles · Updated · CBC Sports · Apr 26
Updated guidance in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology says about one in five Canadians, roughly eight million people, have high Lp(a), with elevated risk starting at 100 nanomoles per litre.
Doctors say the inherited particle is missed by standard cholesterol tests and can raise cardiovascular event risk two- to four-fold, so they want one-time adult testing and family follow-up.
There is no drug that specifically lowers Lp(a), though trials are under way; for now, doctors use statins and other risk reduction measures, while US cardiology guidance also backs screening.
One in five people has a silent, genetic heart risk. With new drugs imminent, should testing be mandatory?
Experts urge a new heart test for all adults, but no direct treatment exists yet. What's the real reason?
Canada Implements Universal Lipoprotein(a) Screening for 8 Million Adults to Combat Cardiovascular Risk
Overview
In 2026, Canada introduced universal one-time screening for Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) in adults, driven by research showing that 20% of Canadians have elevated Lp(a), a genetically determined and stable risk factor that significantly raises heart attack and stroke risk. This policy aligns Canada with European standards and enables early intervention through aggressive risk factor management and cascade screening of relatives. While no approved Lp(a)-lowering drugs currently exist, promising therapies are in advanced trials with expected approval by 2028, potentially transforming care. However, challenges like uneven test coverage, low awareness, and systemic barriers must be addressed to ensure equitable access and maximize the benefits of this landmark prevention strategy.