Racial variation of cord plasma lipoprotein(a) levels in relation to coronary risk level: a study in three ethnic groups in Singapore.

Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is recognized as an independent risk factor for atherosclerosis. Studies have also shown that there are racial differences in the Lp(a) profile. The multiracial population of Singapore has demonstrated a differential prevalence of coronary artery disease, which is concordant with the plasma Lp(a) profile in the adult populations of Singapore. The level of Lp(a) is under strict genetic control, and its plasma concentration is determined significantly by inheritance. Expression of the racial profile of Lp(a) at birth was studied in the cord blood of 542 male and 468 female newborns from three ethnic groups of Singapore using the sandwich-ELISA. The Lp(a) levels were then related to the coronary risk levels of their respective adult populations. Lp(a) levels in Singapore newborns were found to be independent of the infant's birth weight and sex but were significantly influenced by race. Indian newborns had significantly higher plasma levels of Lp(a). Chinese newborns had the lowest Lp(a) levels at birth. The ranking of Lp(a) levels at birth was concordant with the relative coronary mortality rates for the respective adult populations of Singapore. Racial differences in plasma Lp(a) levels are present and expressed at birth.