MWLA Chapter Update: The NLA is for All!

Welcome to this edition of LipidSpin the MWLA has put together in partnership with our colleagues of the PLA focusing on atherogenic particles. LipidSpin is a fantastic opportunity to showcase collaborative work in the field of lipidology and this edition shows that lipidology is imperative to so many aspects of medicine. Diseases of metabolism benefit from multidisciplinary care and this topic fits perfectly with how the National Lipid Association works – across disciplines in the health care team, across subspecialties of medicine, and always facilitating a collaborative spirit. 

I recall one of the first national meetings I went to as a cardiology fellow was a National Lipid Association CLU and at that meeting realized what an amazing organization the NLA is - a group of dedicated individuals, from so many aspects of medicine who were enthusiastic, engaging, and welcoming. From then on, I continued to increase my engagement in the association, and have advocated for trainees to get involved as well. This past year approximately 35% of new members in the MWLA were trainee members! 

Members know another great aspect of the NLA is educational programs. The MLWA was successful in having hybrid events this year showcasing complex clinical cases while allowing for that component of networking that makes the National Lipid Association such a great organization to be a part of. We held a ‘Lipid Network’ journal club hybrid event gathering trainees, early-career clinicians, and established lipid specialists to discuss complex cases over dinner with time for networking. Additionally, members of the MWLA participated in fellows-in-training lipid education program for cardiology fellows, focusing on intensive lipid management in the ASCVD population.

I am hoping that we will all be able to join in-person again to experience the welcome this society facilitates for so many in medicine. Along with learning about atherogenic particles in this issue of LipidSpin, I hope everyone also sees the other aspect of the NLA which I value so much – the inclusivity, the collaborative mindset, and the effort to educate all in the field of lipidology. Thank you to all the current NLA members and congratulations to both the PLA and MWLA on this edition of LipidSpin!