CRP, or C-reactive protein, is produced and released by the liver in response to infection, inflammation, or trauma, such as surgery. While standard CRP tests detect high levels typically associated with infectious diseases or tissue damage, high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) tests can detect chronic low-grade inflammation, even in otherwise healthy individuals.

Recent studies suggest that chronic low-grade inflammation may increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. These conditions often result from plaque build-up in major blood vessels, a process known as atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis involves cholesterol deposition and immune cell accumulation: chronic inflammation, detectable through hs-CRP levels in the blood, both triggers and worsens this process.

To conduct this test, you'll prick your finger and place the blood into a provided tube at home. It's best to do this in the morning before eating. After sending your sample to our lab in the pre-paid envelope, you'll soon receive your digital results once completed.