Chatelaine September 2004, Vol. 77 No. 9
It’s time to have a heart-to-heart with your doctor, especially if you have a family history of coronary disease. While high-blood pressure, elevated LDL cholesterol and smoking remain good indicators of potential cardiac problems, recent studies have identified a new trouble sign: C-reactive protein (CRP). The liver produces CRP in response to inflammation in the body caused by things like infections, injuries, excess fat and harmful habits such as noshing on fatty foods.
Even a young and apparently healthy woman can have elevated CRP, raising her chances of a future heart attack or stroke substantially, says Dr. Robert Welsh, a cardiologist at the University of Alberta Hospital. High CRP may also indicate an increased risk for colon cancer, according to Johns Hopkins University researchers. What’s encouraging is that doctors can consider CRP levels to help make diagnoses and begin treatments sooner. Plus, smart lifestyle choices can protect you right now (See Heart boosters right).
Should you be tested?
A new blood test measures tiny CRP increases to flag healthy individuals likely to suffer a heart attack or stroke. (Before, doctors only gauged large CRP elevations when treating patients with inflammatory illnesses, such as arthritis or lupus.) Dr. Jiri Frohlich, academic director of the Healthy Heart Program at St. Paul’s Hospital in Vancouver, says the new test helps health professionals decide whether to start traditional drug treatment for patients with a moderate heart-disease risk. While clinical trials are still required to determine if the CRP test is appropriate for everyone, your doctor may suggest it if you have a family history of heart disease but no other risk factors. For best results, ensure you’re infection and injury-free when you get tested, since other illnesses can skew results.
Are you at risk?
Lifestyle and family history both affect cardiovascular health, says Dr. Sonia Anand of McMaster University. And all the usual suspect behaviors elevate CRP, so if you’re a smoker, have a Canadian tire around your waist or never move from your office chair, you could be in trouble. Even not flossing can hurt, as untreated periodontal disease raises CRP.
But keeping your heart healthy can be fun, says Dr. Frohlich. The occasional glass of red wine, a network of friends and a "Don’t worry, be happy" attitude are all proven heart boosters.
Heart boosters
You can help prevent heart disease. The best part? The most effective solutions are free!
Stop smoking
Exercise! At minimum, go for a brisk 30-minute walk, four to five times a week.
Shed pounds if your waist is more than 90 cm (35 inches) in circumference.
Eat small portions of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy products and lean proteins, including fish (enjoy the latter two to three times a week).
Skip high-fat, high-sodium snack foods, baked goods and fast foods.
Get regular medical and dental check ups.
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