High Sensitivity C Reactive Protein (hsCRP)

Why is hsCRP important for your Healthspan?

‍hsCRP levels offer a window into the body's inflammatory state, which is important for maintaining Healthspan. Chronic low-grade inflammation, often reflected by elevated hsCRP, is implicated in the development and progression of numerous age-related diseases, including atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), type 2 diabetes, and certain neurodegenerative conditions. Sustained inflammation can contribute to cellular and tissue damage over time. Monitoring hsCRP helps in identifying ongoing inflammatory processes, guiding strategies to reduce this burden and support long-term vitality and disease prevention.

‍What is hsCRP?

High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hsCRP) is a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation or tissue injury anywhere in the body. It is known as an 'acute phase reactant' because its levels can rise rapidly and significantly during acute infections or major injuries. The 'high-sensitivity' version of the test is specifically designed to detect even very low levels of inflammation. This makes hsCRP a valuable marker not only for general inflammatory conditions but also for assessing an individual's risk for cardiovascular disease. Elevated hsCRP can indicate chronic, low-grade inflammation in the body, which plays a role in the formation and progression of arterial plaque, even in individuals with otherwise normal cholesterol levels.

‍How do we take action?

If hsCRP levels are found to be elevated, one should consult with a healthcare provider to investigate potential sources of inflammation. Strategies often involve adopting an anti-inflammatory lifestyle, which includes a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy body weight, optimizing sleep, and managing stress. It is also important to address any underlying infections, autoimmune conditions, or chronic diseases that could be contributing to inflammation. Regular monitoring of hsCRP can help track the effectiveness of interventions aimed at reducing systemic inflammation and supporting overall Healthspan.

‍Additional Sources

1. Castro, A. R., Silva, S. O., & Soares, S. C. (2018). The Use of High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein in Cardiovascular Disease Detection. Journal of pharmacy & pharmaceutical sciences : a publication of the Canadian Society for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Societe canadienne des sciences pharmaceutiques, 21(1), 496–503. https://doi.org/10.18433/jpps29872

2. Fonseca, F. A., & Izar, M. C. (2016). High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein and Cardiovascular Disease Across Countries and Ethnicities. Clinics (Sao Paulo, Brazil), 71(4), 235–242. https://doi.org/10.6061/clinics/2016(04)11

3. Lopez-Candales, A., Hernández Burgos, P. M., Hernandez-Suarez, D. F., & Harris, D. (2017). Linking Chronic Inflammation with Cardiovascular Disease: From Normal Aging to the Metabolic Syndrome. Journal of nature and science, 3(4), e341.

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