Atherosclerosis

Twenty five million people have atherosclerosis but don't know it. Most of us think that our LDL count is the only indicator that we need to be concerned about atherosclerosis. But 50% of all heart attacks strike people who do not have a cholesterol problem. And 25% of heart attacks happen to individuals with no major risk factors: they don't smoke, have low cholesterol, are not diabetic and do not have high blood pressure.

But now there is a simple test that can help determine a predisposition to heart disease that does not include the measuring of your cholesterol. It's called a "C Reactive Protein Test."

WHAT IS CRP?

Your liver pumps it into your bloodstream when something is going on that result in inflammation. Heart researchers now believe inflammation is behind most cardiovascular disease.

HOW IS THE TEST READ?

• CRP below 1 mg. per liter: LOW RISK.
• CRP between 1 and 3 mg/L: MODERATE RISK.
• CRP above 3 mg/L: HIGH RISK.

There is one exception. Women on Hormone Replacement Therapy have been shown to have higher CRP readings. Prediction ability of CRP WON'T WORK for these women.

So in conclusion, still do the things you know to do to prevent heart problems, including having your cholesterol checked and take an aspirin daily to deter inflammation. But now in addition ask your doctor to check your CRP.

Cordially,

Helen Pensanti M.D.