People with elevated levels of C-reactive protein may be at a higher risk for heart attacks than those with lower levels.
C-reactive protein is a ring-shaped protein made by the liver in response to the presence of inflammation or another illness in the body. A simple blood test can show someone’s level of C-reactive protein, and doctors sometimes use these tests when they suspect an infection.
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Some chronic conditions such as arthritis, lupus, pneumonia, and cancer can cause high levels of C-reactive protein in the blood,
according to Healthline. C-reactive protein levels are also elevated during the second half of pregnancy.
A Physician’s Health Study of 15,000 men showed men with elevated C-reactive protein had a risk of heart attack three times greater than those with normal
C-reactive protein levels, according to the National Institutes of Health. This study only showed an association between CRP levels and heart attacks, not a causative effect.
Generally, a high-sensitivity CRP test is needed to show any heart attack risk.
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Some researchers contend that treating people who have high C-reactive protein levels will decrease their risk of heart attacks, but the American Heart Association doesn’t recommend this test for general heart disease screening,
according to the Mayo Clinic. They aren’t yet sure it can be helpful in determining an individual’s risk for heart attacks, since other factors may also be at play.
For people who have other risk factors for heart attacks or have active heart disease, the American Heart Association does think the hs-CRP test can be a useful tool.
A Harvard study found that the C-reactive protein test was more effective than cholesterol screening at identifying women who would have coronary issues in the near future.
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