Elevated Lipoprotein(a) and Risk of Atrial Fibrillation

As we know, Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is an established risk factor for coronary artery disease, large artery stroke, and aortic valve stenosis. The authors measured and genetically predicted lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] levels of 4, 35,579 participants from the UK Biobank to investigate the role of Lp(a) in atrial fibrillation (AF) and whether its association is independent of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Interestingly, it was found that there was a 3% increased risk of AF for every 50 nmol/L increase in Lp(a) level. In addition, there was no evidence of a risk-conferring effect from low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and 39% of the risk-conferring effect of genetically predicted Lp(a) on AF was mediated through ischemic heart disease and aortic valve stenosis. The main implication of these observations is the possibility that Lp(a) inhibitors can prevent AF. It is also prudent to know that aside from the recently described protective effect of finerenone, there are currently no treatments to prevent AF. These findings suggest that elevated Lp(a) levels increase the risk of AF independent of its association with ischemic heart disease and aortic valve stenosis, although the clinical magnitude of its effect needs further characterization and validation through RCT Disclaimer: Lupin makes no representation or warranty of any kind, expressed or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness of any scientific information shared by the HCP on the ­­­STAR UPDATE podcast. You should not allow the contents of this to substitute for your own medical judgment, which you should exercise in evaluating the information on this website.