What can you do?

Get your Lp(a) tested

• Ask your GP or specialist for a request slip for the Lp(a) pathology test.

• Get the test done at a pathology collection centre - they will take a blood sample after fasting.

• You may have to pay up to AUD $80 for the test as it is not currently covered by Medicare in Australia.

• You only need to get the test done once as it is genetic  factor.

Discuss your Lp(a) test result with your GP or specialist

• If you have a high or very high Lp(a) result there  are no currently no treatments to reduce it.  However, your GP or specialist my prescribe a blood thinner (e.g. low dose aspirin) and/or medication to reduce your LDL cholesterol.

• They may recommend further tests for coronary artery disease such as a CT Angiogram and/or a CT Coronary Calcium Score.  Note: current standard lipid tests including LDL cholesterol do not detect coronary artery disease.

• They may also recommend lowering overall coronary artery disease risk through diet, exercise and other factors.