C-Reactive Protein blood test is helpful in predicting risk of future heart attacks and strokes

Laboratory testing for high sensitivity C-Reactive protein (CRP) is independently predictive for future heart attacks, strokes and other cardiovascular catastrophes. CRP levels are linearly predictive across the full range, from very low levels to high levels, with no threshold effect. This predictive value of CRP as a cardiovascular risk factor is independent of all other risk factors, including tobacco use, high blood pressure, family history, diabetes, obesity, and elevated LDL cholesterol. CRP measurement adds to the predictive value of the Framingham Risk Score, which includes computation using  HDL and total cholesterol ratios. A statistically significant and independent linear association was reported between baseline CRP levels and future cardiovascular events.

C-reactive protein levels add another, totally independent risk factor, with linear increases in risk from the lowest to the highest levels (from less than 1.0 to greater than 10). A CRP of 3 added a 50% increase in risk, compared to a CRP of 1. Using that same formula, a CRP of 10 would indicate a 500% increase in risk. A CRP of 4 could double the probable risk of a future heart attack, compared to a CRP of 1.

The links below provide a full text article and a National Library of Medicine abstract.

Rifai N, Ridker PM. Proposed cardiovascular risk assessment algorithm using high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and lipid screening. Clin Chem. 2001; 47(1):28-30.

Ridker PM, Cook N: Clinical Usefulness of Very High and Very Low Levels of C- Reactive Protein Across the Full Range of Framingham Risk Scores. Circulation; 2004; 109 (April 27): 1955-1959

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