A protein test to help patients understand their heart disease risk
C-reactive protein (CRP) increases in the blood with inflammation or infection. A high level of CRP is associated with an increased risk of heart attack and heart disease. A high sensitivity C-reactive protein test (hs-CRP) measures the levels of CRP in the blood and, along with cholesterol testing, is one more way to optimize our understanding of your heart risk.
The hs-CRP test is most useful for patients who have a 5 to 10 percent chance of having a heart attack within the next 10 years, based on lifestyle choices, family history, and current health status. Checking your CRP involves a simple blood test. If you’re getting your cholesterol tested, we can use the same tube of blood. Your CRP level puts you in one of three categories:
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Low risk: less than 1 mg/L
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Average risk: 1 to 3 mg/L
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High risk: greater than 3 mg/L
Your doctor can talk to you about steps to take to reduce your CRP level, such as taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (aspirin, ibuprofen, etc.) or statins, eating a heart-healthy diet, managing your weight, quitting smoking, and exercising regularly.
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Have general questions for our heart and vascular program? Email us at AskMHVI@medstar.net. If you have clinically-specific questions, please contact your physician’s office.