Lipoprotein (a) blood test in Chiswick

What the test measures

Lipoprotein (a), often written Lp(a), is a particle similar to LDL cholesterol but with an extra protein attached, called apolipoprotein (a). Raised Lp(a) is associated with a higher risk of heart attack, stroke and narrowing of the aortic valve, independently of your other cholesterol results.

Your Lp(a) level is mainly determined by your genes and stays fairly stable throughout adult life. Diet and exercise have little effect on it. UK lipid guidance increasingly suggests measuring Lp(a) at least once in adulthood, particularly for people with a personal or family history of early heart disease.

The price includes the blood sample taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result with you, and a GP feedback report on request.

Who it is for

• You have a parent, brother or sister who had a heart attack or stroke at a young age.
• You have had a heart or circulation problem yourself despite reasonable cholesterol levels.
• Your family has been diagnosed with familial hypercholesterolaemia.
• You want a fuller picture of your heart risk to discuss with your GP.
• You have never had Lp(a) measured and want a one-off baseline.

Understanding your result

Your report shows your Lp(a) level and the laboratory reference range. A raised level means a higher inherited contribution to heart and circulation risk. It does not mean you will have a heart attack, but it is a reason to pay closer attention to the factors you can change, such as LDL cholesterol, blood pressure, smoking, weight and blood sugar.

Because Lp(a) is inherited, a high result may also be relevant to close relatives. A value outside the range is a prompt for discussion with your practitioner and your GP, who may factor it into your overall risk assessment, not a diagnosis.

Preparing for your test

Fasting is not needed for Lp(a) on its own, as it is not affected by a recent meal. If you are having a cholesterol profile at the same time, we will confirm whether fasting is advised. Let us know if you have a current infection or inflammatory condition, as acute illness can raise the level slightly, and tell us about any lipid-lowering medicines you take.

Heart Health combines Lp(a) with a full cholesterol profile, and Advanced GP2 includes it within a broader check. You can also browse every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is a lipoprotein (a) test in Chiswick?

A lipoprotein (a) blood test at Omnia Lifestyle costs £69. The price covers your sample in Chiswick, analysis at an accredited laboratory, a practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.

How often should I test Lp(a)?

For most adults, once is enough, because the level is largely genetic and changes little over time. Your practitioner may suggest repeating it in particular circumstances.

Can I lower my Lp(a) with diet?

Diet and exercise have little effect on Lp(a). They do, however, lower other risk factors, which matters more if your Lp(a) is raised.

Is Lp(a) included in a standard cholesterol test?

No. A standard cholesterol test measures total, HDL and LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Lp(a) needs to be requested separately.