While many consider LDL as the main culprit for most health conditions, a new study points out the role of another bad type of cholesterol in heart disease.

Previous studies had linked high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), long known as the bad cholesterol, to heart disease and other cardiovascular problems.

According to the study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, Lipoprotein (a) or as Lp(a) also contributes to heart disease; its effect, however, is not as strong as LDL.

"The increase in risk to people from high Lp(a) levels is significantly less severe than the risk from high LDL cholesterol levels," said lead researcher Martin Farrall, adding that one in every six individuals carries one or more of the genes for Lp(a).

Unlike LDL, Lp(a) is mainly inherited, indicating that its levels cannot be controlled by lowering dietary fats or taking statins. Certain drugs such as Niacin and CETP-inhibitors, however, are shown effective in lowering its levels.

Scientists believe Lp(a) can soon be used to assess a patient's risk of developing heart disease.