Knowledge is power, or at least potential power. The real power comes from acting on the knowledge we gain. A weather report can help us to prepare to avoid discomfort or even catastrophe. A forecast gives us knowledge to act. The same logic can be applied to heart disease as we can gain knowledge about our risk of heart attack.
The C-reactive protein (CRP) test, which tests for inflammation in the body, can also be used to evaluate risk of developing coronary artery disease that can lead to a heart attack. Your doctor can help determine if a CRP Test is valuable for you. The first step is knowing your risk level for developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). The CRP test is most valuable for those that fall into the “intermediate risk” group.
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Risk groups for cardiovascular disease (CVD) |
Value of knowing C-reactive Protein (CRP) Levels |
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Low risk- because of low LDL cholesterol levels and no diabetes, no high blood pressure or smoking and no family history of heart attacks. |
X - a high level of CRP will probably not put you at a risk level that requires action.
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Intermediate risk |
XX - helpful to know CRP level, because it can provide missing information. |
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High risk |
X - Known high risk factors should already be working to lower risks. |