A healthy hs-CRP level is below 1 mg/L, while levels above 3 mg/L indicate high risk; measuring hs-CRP is a simple, inexpensive blood test that can be widely used for risk assessment.

Recent discussions and the American College of Cardiology now recommend universal screening of hs-CRP, a marker of inflammation, for both primary and secondary prevention of heart disease, emphasizing inflammation as a more significant predictor than cholesterol.

A cardiologist highlights that hs-CRP testing can predict heart attack risk more accurately than cholesterol levels alone, as high inflammation can exist even with normal cholesterol.

Clinical trials have shown that anti-inflammatory drugs like colchicine and canakinumab can lower inflammation and reduce cardiovascular events, whereas others like methotrexate do not demonstrate such benefits.

Lifestyle modifications such as eating whole, plant-based foods, exercising regularly, losing excess weight, quitting smoking, and consulting a doctor about statins or anti-inflammatory medications can help lower CRP levels.

Detailed lipid testing, including LDL particle count and ApoB, can provide more precise risk assessment, especially in individuals on statins who may have low measured LDL but persistent inflammation.

CRP tests are accessible in the UK through various channels, including GP surgeries, private clinics, or at-home finger-prick kits, and differentiate between tests for infection and chronic inflammation.

While imaging biomarkers for vascular inflammation exist, they are not yet suitable for routine clinical use; ongoing studies are exploring new therapies like bempedoic acid and IL-6 inhibitors for further risk reduction.

Personal testimonials reveal that statins can significantly lower CRP levels, which many consider a lifesaver, and they recommend asking doctors for CRP testing as part of risk assessment.

Chronic inflammation indicated by elevated CRP is associated with damaged arteries and higher risks of stroke and heart attack, with levels above 3 mg/L signaling high risk.

While lowering LDL cholesterol with statins reduces cardiovascular risk, residual risk persists due to ongoing inflammation, which can be targeted through lifestyle changes and specific anti-inflammatory drugs.

A comprehensive cardiovascular risk assessment should include both lipid profiles and inflammatory markers, with lifestyle and diet modifications forming the foundation of prevention.