James Buckley, best known for playing Jay in The Inbetweeners, has disclosed that he is at an elevated risk of a heart attack or stroke due to a genetic condition. The 38-year-old actor shared the news on his podcast, The Buckleys, alongside his wife, Clair Buckley, also 38, after she recounted a recent medical emergency.
Health Scare Prompts Revelation
During the podcast episode, Clair described feeling unwell for several days, which led to a hospital visit. Medical staff found abnormalities in her blood, and she was treated with intravenous fluids and antibiotics. After Clair finished her story, James interjected to announce his own health concerns.
Following blood tests, James learned that he has elevated levels of lipoprotein(a), a type of cholesterol-carrying lipoprotein. This condition places him at a high risk for a cardiovascular event, such as a heart attack or stroke. He told listeners, 'There’s nothing you can do about it by the way,' expressing frustration at the lack of direct treatment options.
Understanding Lipoprotein(a)
According to the British Heart Foundation, lipoproteins are 'little groups of proteins and fats that help carry fats around your body.' Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is 'a type of lipoprotein made by your liver.' It consists of a lipoprotein similar to low-density lipoprotein (LDL), often called 'bad' cholesterol, and two proteins, ApoB and Apo(a).
The charity explains that Apo(a) makes Lp(a) stickier, which can increase the risk of blood clots. High levels of Lp(a) are genetically determined and can raise the likelihood of cardiovascular disease. James expressed a desire for medication to address the issue, but his doctor advised lifestyle changes instead. Clair teased him, saying, 'Yeah it’s weird isn’t it, being healthy?'
Lifestyle Adjustments and Medical Advice
While Lp(a) levels are not influenced by lifestyle, the British Heart Foundation emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing other risk factors like high cholesterol. Recommendations include staying active, reducing alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, and following a heart-healthy diet. Doctors may also prescribe statins, which, although they do not directly lower Lp(a), can help reduce its stickiness.
James listed the parts of his body at risk, including his arteries, prompting Clair to quip, 'Stop clogging them with KFC.' He assured her he had not been and had 'turned it around.' Clair revealed that due to their health concerns, they had abstained from beer for about two and a half weeks.
Fan Reactions and Family Life
Listeners responded with support. One commenter, @bobbywheelhouse, wrote, 'No beer is total s***. Glad you’re both alive.' Another, @HotelSeptember, shared his own experience with high Lp(a), admitting he 'couldn’t keep up the lack of beer' but tries to eat healthily.
James and Clair married in November 2012 and have two sons, Harrison (born 2011) and Jude (born 2013). The Buckleys podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and YouTube.
