The Inbetweeners star James Buckley has revealed a genetic health risk linked to high Lipoprotein(a) levels.
The Inbetweeners star James Buckley has revealed that blood tests showed he had high levels of
About Lipoprotein (a)
).
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James Buckley Opens Up About His Diagnosis
The Inbetweeners star who is 38 years old, discussed his health on his podcast “At Home With The Buckleys”. He said doctors had found a high level of Lipoprotein(a) in his blood and told him that this put him at high risk of a cardiovascular incident (2✔ ✔Trusted Source
Lipoprotein (a)
).
The actor said the diagnosis led him to make changes to his usual lifestyle. In an interview with The Independent, he stopped drinking alcohol and stopped ordering takeaway meals, while his wife Clair also supported him in making these changes.
“I’ve got a genetic disease, mate,” he said. “It’s something to do with my Lipoprotein(a), something to do with that.
“There’s nothing you can do about it, by the way. And the doctor’s just been like, ’You need to change.’ I’m at a high risk now for a cardiovascular incident. My heart, my arteries. It’s not my fault.”
Buckley added that since receiving the diagnosis, he has given up alcohol and stopped ordering takeaways – with his wife joining him in solidarity.
“I’m not a religious man, but sometimes I feel like there is a God that sort of goes, ‘That’ll teach you,’” he added. “I feel like I’ve been on this podcast slagging people off that don’t drink, and now I’ve been told to try not drinking.
“But I’m going to have a beer soon. I’m just trying to do a little reset, especially after the tour.”
Buckley also expressed concern about whether his inherited Lp(a) levels could affect his children. High Lp(a) levels can run in families because they are largely genetically determined.
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What Is Lipoprotein(a) and Why Does It Matter?
Lipoprotein(a), commonly known as Lp(a), is a type of lipoprotein found in the blood that carries
High Lp(a) often does not cause noticeable symptoms, which means a person may not know they have elevated levels unless they undergo a blood test. The American Heart Association notes that a blood test can measure Lp(a) levels.
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Why High Lipoprotein(a) Can Increase Heart Risk
High levels of Lp(a) are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular problems. According to the CDC, people with high Lp(a) are more likely to experience
Because Lp(a) is largely inherited, lifestyle changes cannot simply remove the genetic factor itself. However, knowing about the condition can help healthcare professionals assess a person’s overall cardiovascular risk and manage other factors that may contribute to heart disease.
Conclusion
James Buckley’s experience has highlighted the importance of understanding inherited factors that can affect heart health. High Lipoprotein(a) may not cause obvious symptoms, but it can increase cardiovascular risk. While genetics play a major role in Lp(a) levels, identifying the risk can help people and healthcare professionals make more informed decisions about overall heart health.
References:
- About Lipoprotein (a)
– (https://www.cdc.gov/heart-disease-family-history/about/about-lipoprotein-a.html?utm) - Lipoprotein (a) – (https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol/genetic-conditions/lipoprotein-a?utm_)
Source-Medindia