New Initiative Enhances Cardiovascular Disease Screening in Community Health Centers

In a significant public health initiative, the American Heart Association (AHA) has launched the Lp(a) Community Health Centers Discovery Project, aimed at increasing awareness and screening for elevated lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)), a genetic risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). This initiative, supported by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, addresses a critical gap in awareness and testing, particularly in community health centers (CHCs), where access to such screenings can be limited.
Elevated lipoprotein(a) is recognized as an independent risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), which is the leading cause of death globally, as reported by the World Health Organization in its 2023 Global Health Estimates. Unlike other lipid markers, Lp(a) levels are genetically determined and remain unaffected by lifestyle changes. Studies indicate that approximately 1 in 5 Americans have high Lp(a) levels, yet fewer than 1% of individuals with ASCVD have been tested for this marker.
According to Dr. Kaavya Paruchuri, M.D., a volunteer with the AHA and clinical operations director at Massachusetts General Hospital, “A simple, one-time Lp(a) test can provide lifelong insights into heart disease risk, especially for those with a family history of cardiovascular issues.” The current initiative aims to expand testing capabilities across various CHCs, thereby empowering individuals to manage their heart health more proactively.
The Lp(a) Discovery Project aims to recruit 20 CHCs across the United States, ten of which have already begun implementing new screening processes. Participating centers have reported increased testing rates, reflecting a growing momentum towards enhancing cardiovascular risk assessments. Current participating centers include Bay Area Community Health in Fremont, California, and Heart of Ohio Family Health Centers in Columbus, Ohio, among others.
The project has also launched educational initiatives targeting both healthcare professionals and patients, emphasizing the importance of Lp(a) screening. A baseline survey conducted as part of the Discovery Project found that a significant portion of U.S. adults are unaware of Lp(a) and its associated risks. The survey highlighted that healthcare professionals are pivotal in raising awareness, as their recommendations significantly influence patients’ decisions to get tested.
The implications of this initiative extend beyond individual health; they touch on broader public health outcomes. Elevated Lp(a) is associated with increased risks of serious cardiovascular events, including heart attacks and strokes. Therefore, improving screening practices can potentially lead to early intervention and better management of cardiovascular health across populations.
Looking forward, the AHA plans to leverage insights from the initial phase of the Lp(a) Discovery Project to refine screening processes and educational outreach. As the program expands, it is expected to serve as a model for integrating genetic testing into routine cardiovascular risk assessments in community health settings. This could ultimately contribute to a reduction in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, aligning with global health goals.
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