New clinical evidence indicates that a measurement called high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP) is an independent marker that can pinpoint those at risk for stroke or heart attack even when cholesterol measurements are normal. Life Line Screening, the nation'ss leading provider of community-based preventive health screenings, includes testing for this risk indicator among its services.
Healthcare professionals traditionally view high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or bad cholesterol as the primary blood measurement for stroke and heart disease risk.
Attention to CRP should not be avoided, as the new study in the NEJM indicates, states Andrew Manganaro, MD, FACS, FACC, Chief Medical Officer of Life Line Screening. The results of this
study shed light on the fact that half of all cardiovascular events occur in people without high cholesterol. The need to screen for other potential risk indicators is clear, and the
medical community is beginning to explore this fact. We are proud to be able to offer the CRP screening (http://www.lifelinescreening.com/screeningservices/heartdisease/Pages/C-ReactiveProtein.aspx)
along with our other testing services.
CRP is a marker of inflammation in the body. Previous studies suggested that its significance for cardiovascular disease was limited to cases in which it was coupled with a high LDL
measurement. The new study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, now reveals that CRP is an effective independent predictor for increased risk of heart disease, even among
individuals whose LDL cholesterol counts were found to be at normal levels. These new findings are prompting the medical community to take a new look at how they identify at-risk
individuals.
About Life Line Screening
Life Line Screening, the nation'ss leading provider of preventive health screenings, offers a simple finger-stick blood test that checks for elevated CRP levels, in most states. Results
are ready minutes after the screening and can provide a better understanding of a person'ss risk for heart disease and stroke. Finger-stick blood tests for diabetes and cholesterol levels
are also available.
All three screenings--CRP, glucose and cholesterol (http://www.lifelinescreening.com/screeningservices/heartdisease/Pages/default.aspx)--are available
for $70.
For more information regarding the screenings or to schedule an appointment, call 1-800-697-9721 or visit www.lifelinescreening.com.
Pre-registration is required.