What Lp(a) measures
Lp(a) is an LDL-like particle with an extra protein, apolipoprotein(a), attached. How much Lp(a) you make is determined mostly by your genes and stays fairly stable through adult life.
A standard cholesterol panel doesn't report Lp(a) separately – it has to be ordered as its own test.
Why it matters for longevity
Studies have linked higher Lp(a) with a higher long-term risk of heart attack, stroke and narrowing of the aortic valve, independent of other cholesterol measures. Because it is inherited and stable, European guidelines (ESC/EAS) suggest that adults consider having it measured at least once in their lifetime.
Knowing your Lp(a) can help your doctor judge how much attention to give the risk factors you can change, such as ApoB and blood pressure. Because it runs in families, a result may also be relevant to close relatives.
How it's tested
- Sample
- More often venous; some finger-prick kits include it
- Fasting
- Not usually required
- Units
- nmol/L (preferred) or mg/dL – the two can't be converted reliably, so compare results in the same unit
Before you test
- One measurement is often enough unless your doctor suggests repeating it.
- If you re-test, use the same unit (nmol/L or mg/dL) so results are comparable.
What can affect your result
- Your genes – by far the biggest factor
- Kidney disease, menopause and some medicines can shift levels
- Differences between labs and measurement methods
Talking to your doctor about your result
Your report will show your result next to the lab's reference range. Ranges differ between labs and units, and a result inside or outside the range isn't a diagnosis on its own. Share the full report with your doctor – especially if a result is flagged, you have symptoms, or there's a family history that concerns you. Don't start, stop or change any medicine or supplement based on a home test without medical advice.
What a Lp(a) test costs
In our European price check (12 October 2026), the cheapest Lp(a) test we found was €20 (Labor Dr. Heidrich (Hamburg), Germany); the cheapest option in the most expensive country was €85 (Finland). Lab prices often exclude a small blood-draw or visit fee. It can be better value as part of a panel if you want several of the core markers. See every price by country in our European blood test price guide.
Lp(a): common questions
How often should I test Lp(a)?
Because Lp(a) is mostly inherited and changes little over time, many people only need one measurement in adulthood. Your doctor may suggest repeating it in specific situations.
Why isn't Lp(a) in my normal cholesterol test?
Standard lipid panels measure total, LDL and HDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Lp(a) uses a separate test, so you need to choose a panel that lists it or add it on.
Can diet or exercise change my Lp(a)?
Lifestyle changes have little effect on Lp(a) itself. They still matter for your other risk factors, which is why doctors look at Lp(a) together with everything else.
Related markers
Sources
[PLACEHOLDER: 2–4 primary references (guidelines, consensus statements) confirmed by the medical reviewer]