UPDATE: Global healthcare experts are sounding the alarm over a critical genetic risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) that affects 1 in 5 people worldwide. This urgent call comes ahead of World Heart Day on 29 September 2025, as new data reveals that many people are unaware of the dangers posed by elevated lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a).
Every year, CVD claims nearly 18 million lives, surpassing deaths from all cancers combined. Yet, elevated Lp(a) remains a largely untested and overlooked threat in heart health strategies. A recent survey commissioned by Novartis highlights that a staggering 66% of respondents in the Asia Pacific and Middle East skip routine heart checks, while 45% do not recognize genetics as a risk factor for heart disease.
During a recent educational webinar titled “Introducing the Little (a) with Big Consequences,” organized by Global Heart Hub and Novartis, experts stressed the need for immediate action. According to Neil Johnson, Executive Director of Global Heart Hub, “Cardiovascular disease remains the world’s leading cause of death, yet elevated Lp(a) is not even on most people’s radar.” He emphasized the media’s vital role in raising awareness of this hidden risk factor.
The webinar featured compelling testimonies and insights from patient advocates and leading medical professionals. Ram Khandelwal, a heart attack survivor, shared his journey in advocating for heart health awareness in India through the Heart Health India Foundation. Meanwhile, Prof. Gerald Watts from the University of Western Australia elaborated on the genetic mechanisms behind elevated Lp(a) and its dire implications for cardiovascular health.
Experts are calling for policymakers to integrate Lp(a) testing into national cardiovascular disease guidelines. Nicola Bedlington, Senior Policy Advisor of the Lp(a) International Task Force, stated, “Embedding Lp(a) testing into national CVD guidelines is essential to close critical care gaps.” The economic impact of testing is also significant, as highlighted by Prof. Zanfina Ademi from Monash University, who pointed out the cost-effectiveness of Lp(a) testing in the region.
Despite the alarming lack of awareness, the survey indicated that 58% of participants expressed interest in genetic testing for this risk factor, presenting a unique opportunity for public health initiatives. The experts concluded the session with a unified call to action, advocating for expanded Lp(a) testing across the Asia Pacific and Middle East.
Judith Love, President of Novartis for the Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa region, declared, “Every test taken could mean a life saved.” She urged immediate action to ensure that patients are empowered with knowledge about this “little (a) with big consequences,” enabling them to take control of their heart health.
As the clock ticks towards World Heart Day, the urgency for awareness and action on elevated Lp(a) cannot be overstated. This critical genetic factor, often overlooked, poses a significant risk that could be mitigated through increased testing and awareness, potentially saving millions of lives worldwide.
