Heart disease is the number-one killer of adults in the Western world. Research now shows that a simple test for C-reactive protein to identify cardiovascular inflammation might be the most accurate predictor of heart attack risk.
The Study
Nearly 29,000 women were tested and observed over an eight-year period for the occurrence of heart attacks. LDL cholesterol and C-reactive protein (CRP) tests were administered. The CRP testing was significantly more accurate in predicting future heart attacks than was LDL testing. Women with higher levels of CRP in their body were more likely to have heart attacks. In fact, CRP level was nearly twice as accurate a predictor as was the LDL cholesterol measure.
The Benefits
One of every three first coronary events (heart attack or stroke) happens to someone without traditional risk factors for coronary artery disease, such as high cholesterol.
This test determines the amount of calcium in coronary arteries. Calcium is a marker for inflammation, which is present in many cases of heart attack. Early detection can result in proactive measures including medical treatment (such as prescribing statins), and can be started before a heart event actually occurs. In addition, heart-healthy lifestyle changes can be instituted.
More study is needed, but these findings are encouraging for those at risk for heart disease. |
