hs-CRP (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein)
Diagnostics · Inflammatory marker
Tier A
What this is
Target hs-CRP <1 mg/L for low CV risk; 1-3 moderate; >3 elevated. CANTOS 2017 validated IL-1β inflammation pathway as causally CV-relevant. Do not measure during acute illness. Elevated hs-CRP is also a general longevity marker — chronic inflammation shortens healthspan.
Mechanism
Acute-phase protein from liver responsive to IL-6; non-specific systemic inflammation marker; predicts cardiovascular events independent of LDL (Ridker JUPITER work); influenced by infection, obesity, poor sleep, exercise recovery
Dose & route
Annually; interpret after infection/injury resolves (takes 2-3 weeks)
Citations
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18997196/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28845751/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5984134/
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This is an independent synthesis of published research by a non-clinician. Scores are opinions supported by citations, not prescriptions. See the full disclaimer and methodology for how this score was produced and what it does and doesn't mean.