The CRP Blood Test is a simple test that could save your life. You probably keep track of your blood pressure, and you know whether your cholesterol is high, low, or normal. But what about your C-reactive protein (CRP)?
RP – short for C-reactive protein – provides a general indicator of inflammation within the body. Inflammation is a condition that can contribute to a host of serious ailments.
“Chronic inflammation can do serious damage to the arterial walls,” says Michael Roizen, MD, YOU Doc and best-selling author. ”Chronic inflammation causes swelling and reduction in the diameter of the arteries that can lead to blood clots and accelerate the build-up of plaque and subsequent atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.”
According to the American Heart Association, people with high CRP are twice as likely to suffer cardiac arrest as those with low levels. “This makes C-reactive Protein the most important cardiovascular risk factor we have for men and women over age 50—a more important factor than age, family history, blood pressure, cholesterol, and whether you smoke,” says Roizen.
Protect your health with a CRP Blood Test
Everyone should regularly measure their CRP levels through a simple blood test. Your CRP test doesn’t just protect your heart. New research indicates that elevated levels of C-reactive protein are linked to heart disease, stroke, memory loss, impotence, wrinkling and even Alzheimer’s disease.
Knowing your CRP levels – and lowering them if they are high – is one of the best things you can do for your health.