by: Hernan Gutierrez
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — An Indianapolis doctor is raising awareness for what she calls a “hidden heart risk.”
The American Heart Association recognizes February as American Heart Month. Dr. Kristi Dickson, a board-certified internal medicine doctor at Innovative Hematology in Indianapolis, wants people to know about their lipoprotein (a) levels.
Lipoprotein (a) is an inherited type of low-density lipoprotein, or fat, in the blood. At high levels, Lp(a) can increase a person’s risk for heart disease, heart attack, or stroke.
“It’s not a factor that routinely is checked, like cholesterol,” Dickson said. “It has been recognized that when lipoprotein level (a) is high, it does increase the risk of heart attack.”
One of Dickson’s patients, Greg Harvey, has hemophilia, a bleeding disorder that makes it hard to control bleeding. As a result, he often gets bloodwork and closely follows his doctors’ advice to stay healthy.
“I’ve been coming to Innovative Hematology Clinic for almost all my life,” Harvey said. “They were the place that taught me how to self-infuse, to treat myself at home without going to the emergency room or the hospital.”
Despite being well managed, he’s tested for high levels of lipoprotein (a). Dickson says he represents a growing group of older adults with the risk factor.
It might also explain why his family has a history of heart disease.
“You actually inherit that from a family member,” Harvey said. “I’ve made my family members aware. See, if you have any buildup in your arteries and your heart, get those tested to make sure you’re okay. Don’t be afraid.”
That’s exactly why both are taking this American Heart Month to advocate for people to get tested for their lipoprotein levels.
“It’s not only benefiting the individual, but also their family members, from a standpoint of cardiovascular prevention,” Dickson said.
Dickson recommends that people consult their own doctors to see whether or not they should be tested.
Source: WISHTV
