Elevated levels of C-reactive protein are associated with risk of heart failure
Quick Look
- Scientists at the University of Lorraine found that persistently elevated levels of C-reactive protein in the blood are associated with a 34% increased risk of heart failure and a 90% increased risk of death.
- The study was published in the International Journal of Cardiology.
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Why It Matters
C-reactive protein is a marker of inflammatory processes in the human body.
Persistently elevated levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) in the blood may indicate an increased risk of heart failure. Scientists from the University of Lorraine came to this conclusion after analyzing data from more than 64 thousand people. The results were published in the International Journal of Cardiology (IJC).
The study included people aged 40 to 80 years with at least two cardiovascular risk factors. Each person's CRP level was measured at least twice, which made it possible to identify its persistent increase.
People with CRP levels between 3.1 and 10 milligrams per liter had a 34 percent higher risk of heart failure than those with levels between 0.1 and 3 milligrams per liter. The risk of death from any cause was 90 percent higher.
C-reactive protein serves as a marker of inflammation in the body. According to the researchers, the results indicate a possible role of chronic low-grade inflammation in the development of heart failure.
The authors note that a persistent increase in CRP may be important for assessing the risk of heart failure. However, the work revealed a connection, not a cause-and-effect relationship.
Open Questions
- Is inflammation a direct cause of heart failure?
