CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH

Key Points: The Heart’s Hidden Risk Factor Cardiovascular disease continues to be a top cause of death in Canada, despite growing awareness around cholesterol and heart health. But there’s a lesser-known, more precise marker gaining traction: Apolipoprotein B, or ApoB. It may just be the most important number you’re not tracking—yet. What Exactly Is ApoB? ApoB is a structural protein found on the surface of several lipoproteins, including LDL particles—commonly referred to as “bad cholesterol.” But here’s the catch: Each atherogenic particle contains exactly one ApoB molecule. That means if you measure ApoB, you’re effectively counting all the particles that can clog arteries and increase heart disease risk. Where standard LDL tests measure cholesterol content, ApoB reflects particle count, offering a more accurate look at cardiovascular risk. How to Access ApoB Testing in Canada ApoB testing is now available across Canada, especially in major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and beyond. While some labs offer it through physician referrals, access may be limited by long wait times and test availability. If you’re looking for faster, more flexible testing, DAYHOFF offers at-home ApoB tests as part of a detailed biomarker panel—no waiting rooms required. Cost of ApoB Testing in Canada Understanding Your ApoB Results ApoB is measured in grams per litre (g/L). Lower levels generally indicate a lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease. General reference guide: It’s important to interpret your results in the context of your overall health profile, including family history, lifestyle, and other biomarkers. What to Do If Your ApoB Is High Elevated ApoB levels aren’t a life sentence—they’re an early warning. You can take control with targeted lifestyle changes: How DAYHOFF Makes ApoB Testing Simple At DAYHOFF, we believe everyone should have access to powerful, preventive tools that put their health in their hands. That’s why we offer convenient, at-home ApoB testing kits, no matter where you live in Canada. Why ApoB Should Be on Your Radar You don’t have to wait for a health scare to start taking heart health seriously. ApoB testing offers a proactive, science-backed way to detect early risk and make smarter health decisions now—before problems arise. Whether you’re managing a family history of heart disease, adjusting your wellness strategy, or just want a clearer picture of your health, ApoB testing with DAYHOFF is a critical step. Start Today, Live Healthier Tomorrow Your heart health shouldn’t be a guessing game. With DAYHOFF, you gain more than a lab result—you gain clarity, confidence, and a partner on your path to better health. Learn more about our biomarker testing services, including ApoB, VO₂ max, DEXA scans, and 50+ additional metrics designed to optimize your healthspan. Take the first step. The sooner you know, the better you can take action. DAYHOFF is one of Canada’s only services offering comprehensive, concierge-style diagnostics including at-home blood draws, full-panel healthspan biomarker testing, and expert-led interpretation. We bring precision health to your doorstep—convenient, personalized, and always science-driven.

At DAYHOFF, our recent client data revealed that 18% of users uncovered a serious but silent cardiovascular threat in their bloodwork: elevated lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a). This aligns with estimates from the American College of Cardiology, which states that 20–25% of the global population may carry this risk factor. Despite its prevalence, Lp(a) is often excluded from standard healthcare screenings—leaving many in the dark. Quick Facts About Lp(a): What Is Lp(a) and Why Should You Care? Lipoprotein(a), also called Lp(a) or “L-P-little-a,” is a type of cholesterol particle similar to LDL (commonly known as “bad cholesterol”). What sets it apart? Lp(a) levels are determined almost entirely by your genes, and when elevated, can increase your risk of heart disease by 2 to 4 times. It’s not something you develop from your lifestyle—it’s something you’re born with. And unless you specifically test for it, you might never know you have it. Why Lp(a) Matters Lp(a) isn’t widely discussed—even among some healthcare providers—but the medical research is clear: individuals with high Lp(a) are at significantly increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease. This includes: One key insight from research: Lp(a) levels correlate linearly with cardiovascular risk. The higher your level, the greater your risk—without a known “safe” threshold. Is Lp(a) Genetic? Yes. Lp(a) levels are primarily controlled by a specific gene, LPA on chromosome 6. Unlike other risk factors like diet or lifestyle, this one is mostly determined before you’re even born. If one parent has high Lp(a), you’re more likely to inherit it. But only a blood test can confirm your levels. Could Lp(a) Have Affected a Family Member’s Heart Health? Possibly. While it’s impossible to say definitively whether high Lp(a) caused a loved one’s heart attack or stroke, if you have a family history of early heart disease, testing your Lp(a) could be one of the most important steps you take for your own health. What’s Considered a High Lp(a) Level? Canadian guidelines suggest that levels above 50 mg/dL (100 nmol/L) are elevated. However, many healthcare experts—including our team at DAYHOFF—consider 30 mg/dL (75 nmol/L) as the threshold for increased cardiovascular risk. And remember: the higher the number, the higher the risk. There’s no clear cutoff where risk “suddenly starts”—it rises gradually with your Lp(a) level. Can Lp(a) Be Lowered? Right now, there are no approved treatments in Canada that specifically target Lp(a). But research is underway: But I Eat Well and Exercise—Why Are My Lp(a) Levels Still High? That’s the thing about Lp(a)—your healthy habits don’t affect it much. While regular exercise and good nutrition are crucial for overall heart health, they won’t lower Lp(a). High levels are rooted in your genetics. Does Diet Have Any Impact? No direct impact on Lp(a), but don’t give up on your healthy eating habits. A balanced diet can improve other heart-related markers like LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure, and inflammation, all of which influence your overall cardiovascular risk. Other Markers to Watch If your Lp(a) is elevated, it’s even more important to keep other biomarkers in check, including: Optimizing these markers can help you balance out the risk that Lp(a) poses. How to Lower Your Heart Disease Risk If You Have High Lp(a) You may not be able to lower your Lp(a) directly (yet), but you can still take powerful steps to protect your heart: Why Isn’t Lp(a) Tested in Standard Canadian Healthcare? Although the Canadian Cardiovascular Society recommends everyone test Lp(a) at least once in their life, it’s not part of most routine health checkups. Typically, doctors order a standard lipid panel—which does not include Lp(a)—and only later in life (usually post-50) might they recommend a specific Lp(a) test. The reasons? Cost, lack of awareness, and the fact that current treatments don’t specifically target Lp(a). But early detection is still valuable—because knowledge can help you make smarter lifestyle and medical decisions. How to Test Your Lp(a) with DAYHOFF At DAYHOFF, we make it easy to uncover critical health insights. Our comprehensive biomarker testing includes Lp(a)and over 40+ key indicators that affect your longevity and wellness. With your results, you’ll receive: Take the First Step Toward Medicine 3.0 Modern medicine is moving away from reactive care and toward personalized, proactive wellness. That’s what we believe in at DAYHOFF. Don’t wait until it’s too late to discover what your body is trying to tell you. Get ahead of your health risks with real data, expert guidance, and a personalized wellness roadmap. DAYHOFF is your partner in precision health.We empower you with the tools and insights you need to take control of your longevity and reach your fullest potential—because your future self depends on the decisions you make today.