hs-CRP (high-sensitivity C-Reactive Protein)

High-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) measures very low levels of C-reactive protein in your blood, a substance your liver produces in response to inflammation anywhere in the body. While a standard CRP test detects the large spikes that accompany infections or injuries, the high-sensitivity version can pick up the subtle, chronic inflammation that simmers quietly beneath the surface and is increasingly linked to cardiovascular risk. Think of hs-CRP as a smoke detector for low-grade inflammation. Research shows that even modest elevations in hs-CRP are associated with a higher risk of heart attack and stroke, independent of cholesterol levels.

This is why it is considered a valuable addition to traditional lipid panels: it captures a dimension of cardiovascular risk that cholesterol alone may miss. Generally, an hs-CRP below 1 mg/L is considered low risk, 1 to 3 mg/L is average risk, and above 3 mg/L is higher risk. However, readings above 10 mg/L usually indicate an acute inflammatory process (such as an infection or injury) rather than chronic cardiovascular inflammation, and should be retested once resolved. Levels of hs-CRP often respond to lifestyle changes. Regular exercise, a Mediterranean-style diet, maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, and managing stress can all help bring levels down.

Certain medications, such as statins, also reduce hs-CRP. It is worth noting that hs-CRP is a non-specific marker: it tells you inflammation is present but not where it is coming from. An elevated reading should always be interpreted in context with your other cardiometabolic markers and overall health picture. If your hs-CRP is outside the expected range, your GP can help determine whether it reflects cardiovascular risk, an acute illness, or another inflammatory process.