In the Asia Pacific and Middle East region, two in three individuals (66%) skip routine heart tests, while nearly half (45%) do not recognize genetics as a risk factor of heart disease, a recent survey commissioned by Swiss pharma major Novartis has revealed. One of the key risk factors - elevated lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a) - is rarely tested and often overlooked in heart health strategies, international health experts said at a webinar organised by Novartis and Global Heart Hub.

“Too many people across India are unaware that a simple blood test can reveal their genetic risk from elevated Lp(a),” said Ram Khandelwal, Founder of Heart Health India Foundation. “We need to build widespread awareness and educate communities nationwide, so early testing becomes a natural part of heart health and not just something people consider after a significant cardiac event.”

The experts said that approximately 25% of the Indian population have Lp(a), though awareness of Lp(a) is even lower, with just 22% of respondents to the Novartis survey reporting they had heard of a test for the biomarker, while only 7% had taken it.

“Cardiovascular disease remains one of the leading causes of death in India, and awareness of risk factors such as elevated Lp(a) is critical,” said Dr. A. Sreenivas Kumar, Director, Cardiology, Apollo Hospitals, India.

 “South Asians are particularly vulnerable — in fact, 34% of Indian acute coronary syndrome patients have high Lp(a).When combined with common risk factors such as diabetes, obesity, and hypertension, the likelihood of heart attack or stroke increases dramatically. Lp(a) testing is essential to identify high-risk individuals early and help prevent avoidable cardiac events.”

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) claims nearly 18 million lives worldwide each year, with India accounting for roughly one-fifth of these deaths.

“Testing for Lp(a) is a vital step in preventing heart attacks and saving lives,” said Amitabh Dube, Country President & Managing Director, Novartis India. “At Novartis, we have been advancing cutting-edge research for over three decades, while also expanding patient access to transformative therapies, so that millions of Indians at risk can take proactive steps to protect their heart health.”

The experts called for expansion of Lp(a) testing across the Asia Pacific and Middle East region, embed diagnosis and management of elevated Lp(a) into health systems with supportive policies.