The Hidden Genetic Threat: Experts Sound Alarm on Widespread, Undiagnosed Heart Risk Factor in India
Elevated Lipoprotein(a), a common inherited condition affecting one in four Indians, significantly increases cardiovascular disease risk but remains largely untested, prompting a global call for action.
INDIA, 24 September 2025 – Cardiovascular disease (CVD), the world’s leading cause of death claiming nearly 18 million lives annually, takes a disproportionate toll in India, accounting for roughly one-fifth of global fatalities—a figure surpassing deaths from all cancers combined. Yet, a critical, genetically inherited risk factor lurking within a quarter of the population continues to be widely overlooked: elevated Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a).
Ahead of World Heart Day (September 29), global health experts are urging a paradigm shift in cardiovascular strategies to bridge critical awareness and testing gaps for this hidden threat.
A Pervasive but Invisible Risk
Lp(a) is a type of cholesterol particle in the blood, levels of which are primarily determined by genetics. High levels can lead to plaque buildup and blood clots, independently increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. An estimated 25% of the Indian population has elevated Lp(a), but testing is rare, leaving millions unaware of their heightened risk.
This awareness gap is starkly highlighted by a recent survey commissioned by Novartis across the Asia Pacific and Middle East region. It revealed that 66% of individuals skip routine heart checks, nearly half (45%) are unaware of genetics as a heart disease risk factor, and only 22% had heard of an Lp(a) test. A mere 7% had actually taken one.
South Asians at Particularly High Risk
The need for action is particularly acute in South Asia. Dr. A. Sreenivas Kumar, Director of Cardiology at Apollo Hospitals, India, emphasized the scale of the problem: “Cardiovascular disease remains one of the leading causes of death in India, and awareness of risk factors such as elevated Lp(a) is critical. 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.”
The call for greater public awareness is echoed by patient advocates. Ram Khandelwal, Founder of Heart Health India Foundation, who survived a heart attack at age 33, stated, “Too many people across India are unaware that a simple blood test can reveal their genetic risk from elevated Lp(a). 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.”
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A Unified Call for Systemic Change
The issue was the focus of the recent educational media webinar, “Introducing the Little (a) with Big Consequences,” convened by Global Heart Hub and Novartis. The session brought together a global coalition of experts who issued a unified call to action:
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From a Policy Perspective: Experts urged policymakers to embed Lp(a) testing into national CVD guidelines. Nicola Bedlington, Senior Policy Advisor for the Lp(a) International Taskforce, emphasized the need to close critical care gaps through supportive policies.
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The Economic Argument: Prof. Zanfina Ademi, a Health Economics expert, highlighted the cost-effectiveness of Lp(a) testing, underscoring its potential for positive economic impact on overburdened health systems.
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The Industry Commitment: “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 consensus is clear: tackling the CVD epidemic in India requires a concerted effort to bring this hidden genetic risk factor into the light. By prioritizing Lp(a) awareness, integrating simple blood tests into routine care, and advocating for supportive policies, stakeholders aim to prevent countless avoidable cardiac events and save lives.
