Lp(a) research in Colombia: Gaps and opportunities

Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a genetically determined cardiovascular risk factor of growing importance in Colombia. This review synthesises the Colombian research on Lp(a) to identify key scientific gaps and propose a strategic agenda for future investigation. The evidence is primarily based on two pillars: foundational research on the biochemical and genetic basis of Lp(a) and clinical retrospective studies that have established a threshold of 50 mg/dL as a significant marker for risk reclassification in patients over 40. However, our analysis reveals that the progress is constrained by significant limitations, including a reliance on small-sample retrospective designs, a lack of standardised measurement assays, and the persistent exclusion of Lp(a) from national cardiovascular risk assessment protocols. Therefore, we conclude that there is an urgent need to advance the Colombian research landscape by prioritising large-scale prospective studies, harmonising Lp(a) measurement techniques, and conducting clinical trials on emerging therapies to define their role in the national context.