Elevated Lipoprotein(a) in Asian Populations and its Implications for Cardiovascular Disease

Elevated lipoprotein (a) (Lp[a]) is becoming increasingly recognized as a cardiovascular disease risk factor. The relationship of Lp(a) to cardiovascular disease is well characterized in European populations; however, data are lacking in the Asian region. In this scoping review, we aimed to characterize the distribution and prevalence of elevated Lp(a) in the Asian region and its relationship to coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease, and peripheral vascular disease. Thirty-one Asian studies met the inclusion criteria and were compared with 6 representative European studies. The greatest representation was in Chinese populations, with much less representation of Japanese, Thai, Indian, and other groups. Levels of Lp(a) in healthy Asian populations were generally lower than in Europid (Caucasian) populations; however, these levels remain lower than those reported in European literature. Within Asian populations, elevated Lp(a) was universally associated with increased risk of coronary artery disease and peripheral vascular disease. The relationship with stroke was less clear.