Familial hypoalphalipoproteinemia

As we close out #LipidAwarenessMonth, a reminder: 🫀

Very low HDL is not always about lifestyle. Rare genetic conditions can sometimes be the reason. 🧬

One example is familial hypoalphalipoproteinemia.

Changes in the APOA1 gene can affect ApoA-I, the main protein involved in HDL formation and function.

❤️ Some of these disorders are linked to earlier heart disease and stroke. Others are not.

🔎 The HDL number alone does not tell the whole story.

If HDL is persistently and extremely low, look first at:

💊 Medications

⚙️ Metabolic conditions

🧪 Triglycerides

The takeaway?

If HDL is extremely low, it’s worth looking beyond lifestyle alone. Doctors may consider other causes, including medications, metabolic conditions, and in selected cases -> genetic factors.

Understanding the “why” behind an unusual cholesterol result can help guide appropriate evaluation and cardiovascular risk assessment.

#HDL #Cholesterol #HeartHealth #Genetics #LipidDisorders #Cardiology