Lp(a) in Argentina: A multicenter study on prevalence and clinical outcomes

Abstract

Background and aims: Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a genetically determined and independent cardiovascular risk factor. Despite its clinical relevance, data on Lp(a) prevalence and impact in Latin America are limited. We aimed to assess the prevalence of elevated Lp(a) and its association with cardiovascular outcomes in a large, multicenter Argentine registry.

Methods: The GAELp(a) registry included 3000 adults from six Argentine regions. Lp(a) levels were measured using standardized assays; elevated Lp(a) was defined as >50 mg/dL or >125 nmol/L. Clinical, biochemical, and imaging data were collected retrospectively and prospectively. Associations between Lp(a) and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) were evaluated with logistic regression in the overall population and stratified by statin use.

Results: Elevated Lp(a) was present in 31.4 % of participants, with no sex difference. It was associated with family history of cardiovascular disease, subclinical atherosclerosis, and familial hypercholesterolemia. Patients with elevated Lp(a) had a higher prevalence of coronary artery disease (18.4 % vs. 12.5 %, p < 0.001), peripheral artery disease (4.8 % vs. 2.5 %, p = 0.001), and MACE (21.3 % vs. 14.8 %, p < 0.001). Elevated Lp(a) independently predicted MACE (OR 1.53, 95 % CI: 1.24-1.90, p < 0.001), with stronger associations in statin-naïve individuals (OR 2.18, 95 % CI: 1.17-4.07). ROC analysis showed modest discrimination (AUC 0.57 in nmol/L, 0.59 in mg/dL).

Conclusions: Elevated Lp(a) is frequent in Argentina and strongly linked to cardiovascular disease and events. Its predictive value appears greater in statin-naïve patients, highlighting its role as a marker of residual risk. These findings support routine Lp(a) measurement in cardiovascular risk assessment, particularly in regions with high ASCVD burden.

Keywords: Cardiovascular disease; Cardiovascular events; Lp(a); Prevalence.