A standard cholesterol screening may soon include an additional blood test for lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a). This test, which costs less than $100, can reveal hidden risks of heart disease caused by plaque buildup in arteries. About 1 in 5 people have high Lp(a) levels, often due to genetics. High Lp(a) levels can double the risk of serious heart problems, even if total or LDL cholesterol levels are normal. Experts recommend that everyone get tested for Lp(a) at least once in their lifetime. High Lp(a) levels are particularly dangerous for people with type 2 diabetes, nearly doubling their risk of heart disease. Knowing your Lp(a) level can help you take steps to reduce overall cardiovascular risk, such as lowering LDL cholesterol and addressing other risk factors. New treatments for high Lp(a) are being developed and may be available soon.