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23andMe Aims To Raise Awareness of Lipoprotein(a), a Little-Known Genetic Risk Factor for Cardiovascular Disease
Company teams up with Novartis on Lipoprotein(a) education for 23andMe customers
Company teams up with Novartis on Lipoprotein(a) education for 23andMe customers
SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, CA - In support of Lipoprotein(a) Awareness Day, 23andMe Holding Co. (Nasdaq: ME) (23andMe), a leading human genetics and biopharmaceutical company, announced a collaboration with Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation (Novartis) to increase awareness for Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)). High levels of Lp(a) are associated with increased risk of heart attack, stroke and other life threatening conditions. The level of Lp(a), which can be detected through a simple blood test, is almost entirely determined by genes and is unrelated to diet, exercise or obesity, creating the need for greater awareness.
Roughly one in five people have high levels of Lp(a)1, which conveys a 2-4 times higher risk for heart disease2. However, only approximately 1 percent of adults in the US have had their Lp(a) level tested3.
With support from Novartis, 23andMe is piloting a new program to educate its customers about the risks associated with high Lp(a). 23andMe customers will be able to purchase a confidential screening test for Lp(a) and will be provided the option to connect with clinicians through 23andMe’s telehealth service, Lemonaid Health.
“We are excited to work with Novartis to raise awareness of Lp(a) and the importance of understanding risks associated with high Lp(a). 23andMe is a firm believer in enabling people to get information so they can be proactive about their health, which is how this pilot program with Novartis will benefit our customers," said Anne Wojcicki, CEO and Co-Founder of 23andMe. "This unique collaboration pioneers a new path for disease awareness, leveraging 23andMe's engaged customer base and telehealth services platform. We hope this effort shines a brighter light on the health risks associated with high Lp(a), and helps those who may be at risk.”
About Lp(a) (CDC):
● Lp(a) can build up in the walls of your blood vessels. The higher your Lp(a) level is, the more likely this is to happen. These deposits, called plaques, can decrease blood flow to your heart, brain, kidneys, lungs, legs, and other parts of your body. Plaques can grow over time or suddenly rupture, blocking blood vessels and leading to heart attacks or strokes.
● Lp(a) can cause increased clotting, which can lead to rapidly formed blockages in blood vessels.
● Lp(a) promotes inflammation which increases the likelihood that plaques will rupture.
● High Lp(a) can also lead to narrowing of the aortic valve, called aortic stenosis, because of its role in inflammation.3 Chronic inflammation leads to calcium build up on the valve, causing stiffness. This can result in reduced blood flow if the valve is unable to open completely. In some cases, people with aortic stenosis need surgery or a procedure to replace the aortic valve.
About 23andMe
23andMe is a genetics-led consumer healthcare and biopharmaceutical company empowering a healthier future. For more information, please visit www.23andMe.com.
