JAMES BUCKLEY DIAGNOSED WITH GENETIC DISEASE, CHANGES LIFESTYLE

James Buckley, known for playing Jay in The Inbetweeners, has disclosed that he has been diagnosed with a genetic disease affecting his cardiovascular health. Speaking on his podcast At Home With The Buckleys on 9 August, Buckley stated that doctors found he had high levels of Lipoprotein(a) in his blood, placing him at "high risk" of a cardiovascular incident. Lipoprotein(a) is a cholesterol-carrying protein in blood whose levels are primarily inherited. Buckley said doctors advised him to make significant lifestyle changes.

In response to the diagnosis, Buckley has given up alcohol and stopped ordering takeaways, with his wife Clair joining him in the changes. He described the diagnosis as something "it's not my fault" for, noting that the genetic nature of the condition means there is nothing he can do to prevent having the disease itself. High levels of Lipoprotein(a) can increase the risk of heart disease, heart attacks and stroke. Buckley acknowledged the irony of being told to stop drinking after previously discussing non-drinkers on his podcast.

Buckley expressed concern that he may have passed the condition to his children, given its genetic basis. He indicated he intends to resume drinking beer following a period of abstinence, describing his current approach as a "reset" following completion of a tour. The actor disclosed these details publicly for the first time through his podcast conversation with his wife.