Serum Lipoprotein (a) as a Biomarker for Cardiovascular Disease: Insights from a Bangladeshi Cohort Study

Background: Lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] is increasingly recognized as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Despite its significance, data on Lp(a) levels and their association with CVD in the Bangladeshi population remain scarce. Aim: To evaluate serum Lp(a) levels and their correlation with cardiovascular risk factors among adults in Bangladesh. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to December 2024 at the Department of Biochemistry, Cox’s Bazar Medical College. One hundred adults aged 30–70 years were enrolled, comprising 50 patients with clinically confirmed CVD and 50 age- and sex-matched controls without CVD. Serum Lp(a) levels were measured using immunoturbidimetric assays. Additional lipid profiles, including total cholesterol, LDL-C, HDL-C, and triglycerides, were also assessed. Results: The mean Lp(a) level was significantly higher in the CVD group (46.2 ± 12.5 mg/dL) compared to controls (22.8 ± 10.3 mg/dL, p < 0.001). Elevated Lp(a) levels (>30 mg/dL) were observed in 72% of CVD patients versus 18% of controls. A positive correlation was found between Lp(a) levels and LDL-C (r = 0.42, p < 0.01). Conclusion: Elevated serum Lp(a) levels are significantly associated with cardiovascular disease among Bangladeshi adults. Incorporating Lp(a) screening into routine cardiovascular risk assessments may enhance early detection and prevention strategies.