CRP (High Sensitivity) Blood Test Kit

C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute-phase protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation anywhere in the body. It's part of the innate immune system and rises rapidly in response to infection, tissue injury, or inflammatory conditions. The high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) assay uses more sensitive measurement techniques than standard CRP tests, allowing detection of very low levels of CRP that indicate chronic, low-grade inflammation. This type of subtle, persistent inflammation—often called 'silent inflammation' because it causes no obvious symptoms—is now understood to play an important role in the development and progression of atherosclerosis (the build-up of fatty plaques in artery walls that underlies most heart attacks and strokes). The link between inflammation and cardiovascular disease is well-established. Atherosclerosis is not simply a matter of cholesterol accumulating in arteries—it's an active inflammatory process. Inflammatory cells infiltrate arterial plaques and contribute to plaque instability, making them more likely to rupture and cause acute events like heart attacks. Studies have consistently shown that people with elevated hs-CRP have increased cardiovascular risk, even when their cholesterol levels are normal. For cardiovascular risk assessment, hs-CRP levels are typically categorised as: less than 1 mg/L indicates lower cardiovascular risk; 1-3 mg/L indicates intermediate risk; and greater than 3 mg/L indicates higher risk. Values above 10 mg/L suggest acute inflammation from infection or other causes rather than chronic low-grade inflammation, and the test should be repeated when well. Several lifestyle factors can help reduce hs-CRP levels: regular physical activity has consistent anti-inflammatory effects; weight loss in overweight individuals reduces inflammation (adipose tissue is a source of inflammatory mediators); a Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and olive oil has anti-inflammatory properties; stopping smoking reduces inflammation; and moderate alcohol consumption (though excessive alcohol increases inflammation). Statin medications, used primarily to lower cholesterol, also have anti-inflammatory effects and reduce hs-CRP—the JUPITER trial showed that people with elevated hs-CRP but normal LDL cholesterol benefited from statin therapy. Your hs-CRP result should be interpreted alongside other cardiovascular risk factors for a complete picture. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.