Promptly Health

Lipoprotein (a) testing in atherosclerotic cardiovascular patients in UK: A multicentric observational study using a secondary care data network across UK (Lp(a) Data Network)

Promptly are working with a pharmaceutical company looking to develop new testing strategies to better manage high cholesterol. This company has previously investigated the link between elevated levels of LP(a) and increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is a type of cholesterol linked to heart disease that can be tested in clinical practice. Literature from the European Atherosclerosis Society, FH Europe and the American College of Cardiology highlights low awareness and testing levels of around 1–2%. Currently in the UK, the lack of coding in secondary care and only recently available SNOMED code in primary care limits the ability to identify patients with elevated Lp(a).
Multiple guidelines globally are calling for action on Lp(a) testing to support cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk assessment. Without factoring in Lp(a), a patient’s risk may be underestimated. Testing could help healthcare professionals better understand overall CVD risk, inform treatment management, and identify a potential underlying genetic cause of CVD risk.
By analysing anonymised health records from eight NHS Trusts, researchers will track how often Lp(a) tests are done, who gets tested, and how results influence treatment. They will also explore links between high Lp(a) levels, healthcare usage, costs, and heart health risks. Ultimately, the findings aim to support healthcare providers in using Lp(a) testing to improve heart health outcomes across the UK.

Patients will benefit from this study through improved treatments, a better understanding of care pathways, and improved health outcomes. The research may also support faster clinical research and innovation, helping to accelerate access to new treatments and potential cures. By improving understanding of how Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) testing is used in routine care, the study aims to support earlier identification of people at increased risk of cardiovascular disease and enable more informed treatment decisions.
The anticipated benefits of this research include optimising the implementation of Lp(a) testing within routine clinical practice, improving cardiovascular risk assessment, and supporting healthcare professionals in delivering more personalised care. The findings will help inform future approaches to managing heart disease risk and improve heart health outcomes across the UK.
Participating organisations will gain valuable insights from the study to improve understanding of patient pathways, support service improvement, and inform future clinical practice.

09/07/2026

Live - Contracts Signed

SDE065

Cardiovascular

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