hsCRP

High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) is a refined version of the C-reactive protein test that measures low levels of CRP in the blood. CRP is an acute-phase protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation. The hsCRP test is sensitive enough to detect lower levels of inflammation that are associated with cardiovascular risk. Clinically, hsCRP is a significant marker for assessing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, particularly in individuals without known atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Researchers have found that elevated hsCRP levels are associated with an increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), cardiovascular death, and all-cause mortality. In the context of athletic performance and biohacking, hsCRP can be used to monitor systemic inflammation, which may affect recovery and overall health. Lower hsCRP levels are generally desirable for longevity and optimal health. However, researchers observed that hsCRP levels can be influenced by various factors, including acute infections, chronic inflammatory conditions, and lifestyle factors such as smoking and obesity. It is important to consider these confounders when interpreting hsCRP levels. The test does not require fasting, and while it is not highly time-of-day sensitive, consistent timing for repeated measures is recommended for comparability.