Association between lipoprotein(a) levels and risk factors for cerebrovascular accidents, coronary artery disease, and dyslipidaemia

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the association between lipoprotein(a) levels and risk factors for cerebrovascular accidents, coronary artery disease, and dyslipidaemia (Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Hypertension, History of smoking, Alcohol intake, Dietary habits, and Family history of vascular events). Methods: This was a hospital-based case control study conducted among patients (in the age group of 40 to 80 years with CVA of ischemic origin or CAD) who attended the outpatient department (OPD) and admitted in Department of General Medicine, Vinayaka Missions Medical College & Hospital, Karaikal during the time period of June 2016 to June 2017. The controls enrolled were healthy individuals without any previous history of CAD or CVA (ischemic origin) and a known case of dyslipidaemia. Results: The present study included 100 patients – 50 as cases (25 had ischaemic CVA and 25 had CAD) and 50 as controls. The mean (SD) age of the patients included in the present study was 58.90 years (10.74). More than half the patients included were males (62.0%). The mean (SD) levels of Lp(a) were significantly higher among CAD patients (36.73) and CVA patients (38.51) in comparison with dyslipidaemia patients (24.32). However, the levels of LDL, triglycerides and total cholesterol were significantly higher among dyslipidaemia patients (121.82, 166.40 and 261.20 respectively) in comparison with CAD and CVA patients. The mean (SD) levels of Lp(a) were higher among diabetics (40.75) in comparison with patients having hypertension (34.28), smoking (32.99). taking alcohol (31.20), and non-vegetarian diet (31.39). The low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, and total cholesterol levels did not vary significantly between the risk groups. The results showed that Lp(a) levels were significantly higher among CAD patients (7.53 times) and CVA patients (5.11 times). Conclusion: These findings contribute to our understanding of the intricate connections between lipoproteins, lipid metabolism, and cardiovascular health.