Epidemiology
South Asians face premature cardiovascular disease compounded by elevated Lp(a), a systematic review of 72 articles calling for early, aggressive management (Curr Probl Cardiol 2021)
Original title: Elevated Lipoprotein A in South Asians and the Associated Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: A Systematic Review
This systematic review, following PRISMA methodology, synthesises 72 articles (clinical, case-control and cohort studies, meta-analyses, reviews and editorials) examining elevated lipoprotein(a) and cardiovascular disease risk in South Asians, a population already known to experience premature cardiovascular disease and myocardial infarction. The review covers the pathophysiology, clinical evidence and treatment of elevated Lp(a) in this ethnic group, concluding that South Asians with elevated Lp(a) face further increased coronary artery disease risk on top of their already elevated baseline risk. The author recommends early lifestyle modification and aggressive medical management for South Asians found to have elevated Lp(a).
Original abstract
Background: South Asians have a premature risk of cardiovascular disease and increased lipoprotein A which enhances their risk.
Methods: This systematic review evaluates the role of elevated lipoprotein A in cardiovascular disease risk for South Asians. It discusses the pathophysiology, clinical studies, and treatment of elevated lipoprotein A using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses method.
Results: A total of 72 articles was incorporated which consisted of clinical studies, case-control and cohort studies, meta-analysis, reviews, and editorials. Cardiovascular disease and myocardial infarction occurs prematurely in South Asians, which is further enhanced with an elevated lipoprotein A.
Conclusions: South Asians with an elevated lipoprotein A have an increased risk of coronary artery disease so they should have early enactment of lifestyle modification and aggressive medical management.
Summary written by lp-a.org from the published abstract; figures as published. Page updated 18 August 2026. Methods.