Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death in the United States and around the world. For years, heart health conversations have centered on “bad cholesterol,” known as LDL-C (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol). LDL-C levels can be influenced by lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, smoking, weight, and other health conditions, so many traditional treatments focus on lowering this number to protect the heart.

But true heart health goes deeper and knowing more can be one of the greatest gifts you give yourself.

Beyond LDL: What Is Lp(a)?

One often-overlooked marker gaining attention is Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a). While it looks similar to LDL-C and also contributes to plaque buildup in the arteries, Lp(a) has an added protein, apoprotein(a), that makes it especially sticky. This increases its ability to promote inflammation, plaque formation, and cardiovascular complications.

Why Knowing Your Lp(a) Matters

Unlike other cholesterol markers, Lp(a) is largely genetic. Levels are typically set early in life and remain relatively stable into adulthood. Some individuals and certain racial or ethnic groups are more likely to have elevated levels, often without any symptoms. Because Lp(a) isn’t something you can “feel,” many people don’t realize their risk until problems arise.

That’s why experts recommend checking Lp(a) at least once in your lifetime. Knowing this number empowers you to take proactive, informed steps to protect your heart, now and in the future.

How Powell Pharmacy Supports Your Heart Health

At Powell Pharmacy, we believe knowledge is a powerful form of self-care. Through our comprehensive wellness program, Journey, we help you uncover the full picture of your cardiovascular health with:

• Advanced lab testing, including Lp(a)
• Clear, personalized interpretation from our pharmacists
• Customized wellness recommendations tailored to your unique needs

As part of Journeys, we don’t just run labs, we partner with you to turn information into action. Understanding your cardiovascular risk is more than a test; it’s an investment in your long-term health.

If you want to truly understand your cardiovascular risk check out our Advanced Heart and Metabolic Journey.

This season, gift yourself peace of mind and the power that comes with knowing your numbers.

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Music has a powerful way of bringing intention into everyday life, and this episode proves it. I sat down with middle-school choir teacher and longtime friend Katie Silcott to explore how music fuels connection, creates core memories, and even supports brain health. We share heart-warming stories, from meeting musician Jon Batiste and celebrating birthdays, to caroling through classrooms during a power outage, reminding us that electricity isn’t required to spark magic. Katie highlights how music strengthens the Positive Social Connections pillar, while I tie in the science: increased dopamine, reduced cortisol, and lower inflammation. The episode wraps in the best way possible: singing together. A joyful reminder to be here now, take stock of how music makes you feel, and share that gift with someone you love.

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