What is the PLAC® Test?
The PLAC® test measures the amount of Lp-PLA2 in the bloodstream. Lp-PLA2 is an enzyme that can assess the amount of inflammation in your arteries due to a build-up of cholesterol.
Why should I get the PLAC® Test?
The PLAC® test can help assess your risk for heart disease or stroke. Lp-PLA2is carried through your bloodstream mostly on LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol). When LDL
cholesterol gets into your artery wall the body tries to get rid of it using Lp-PLA2. Unfortunately, this contributes to increased inflammation and increased cholesterol accumulation in the artery wall called plaque. In short, the PLAC® test can help your doctor better understand the health of your arteries and determine if you are actively growing plaque that is at risk for rupturing and causing a heart attack or stroke.
cholesterol gets into your artery wall the body tries to get rid of it using Lp-PLA2. Unfortunately, this contributes to increased inflammation and increased cholesterol accumulation in the artery wall called plaque. In short, the PLAC® test can help your doctor better understand the health of your arteries and determine if you are actively growing plaque that is at risk for rupturing and causing a heart attack or stroke.
Traditionally, the risk of having a stroke is associated with many factors including high blood pressure. Although high blood pressure is known to increase stroke risk, having high
blood pressure and a high PLAC® test result can put you at a much higher risk for stroke. But, it’s important to remember that even if your blood pressure is controlled, a high PLAC®
test result alone still puts you at risk for a stroke.
When should the PLAC® test be performed?
The PLAC® test can be performed at the same time your doctor runs other tests, such as a cholesterol test, to determine if you are at increased risk for heart disease or stroke.
How should I prepare for the PLAC® test?
The PLAC® test does not require any special preparation. You not need to be fasting, and can be taking medications.
What can I do to help lower my Lp-PLA2 levels?
There are a number of things you can do to lower your overall risk of heart disease, as well as lowering your Lp-PLA2 levels. Lifestyle modifications, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising, and quitting smoking can help reduce your Lp-PLA2 levels. Also, there are prescription and non-prescription medicines your doctor can give you that reduce Lp-PLA2 levels.
Your doctor will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is right for you to help reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke.
Your doctor will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is right for you to help reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke.
