What is a CRP Test?
What Is a CRP Test and Why Is It Included in the Life First Comprehensive Health Program?
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a substance produced by the liver when there is inflammation in the body. Inflammation is a normal part of the body’s immune response, but when it becomes persistent at low levels, it can have long-term health implications.
The high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) test measures small amounts of this protein in the blood. While it does not diagnose disease, it can help clinicians assess whether low-grade inflammation may be present. This information is used alongside other clinical data to evaluate an individual's overall health status.
CRP testing is included in the Life First Men’s and Women’s Comprehensive Health Program to provide additional insight into cardiovascular risk and support more informed decision-making during your assessment.
The connection between inflammation and heart health
Research shows that chronic low-grade inflammation is involved in the development of atherosclerosis, which is the gradual build-up of plaque in artery walls. This process can reduce blood flow and increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. According to the American Heart Association, persistent inflammation can damage healthy tissue, including blood vessels, and contribute to the formation of atherosclerotic plaque1. The hs-CRP test helps provide additional context alongside traditional risk factors such as cholesterol, blood pressure, and family history.
Why CRP testing is part of the Comprehensive Program
The Life First Men’s and Women’s Comprehensive Health Program includes a wide range of pathology tests to assess multiple aspects of your health. The hs-CRP test is included because it can detect inflammation at levels too low for standard CRP testing to pick up.
The result is considered as part of a broader clinical picture. If your CRP level is raised, your doctor may look more closely at other risk factors or recommend additional investigations. In some cases, they may suggest monitoring or simple lifestyle changes to help reduce overall health risk.
What a raised CRP result might indicate
There are many reasons CRP levels may be elevated. These include recent illness, minor infections, smoking, high levels of stress, or underlying inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. This is why the test is not used on its own to screen for any one disease.
Instead, the result helps support broader conversations about your health. If needed, your care team may recommend adjustments to your diet, physical activity, sleep or stress management routines to reduce inflammation and support long-term wellbeing.
What are typical hs-CRP levels?
The hs-CRP test result is usually interpreted in relation to cardiovascular risk:
- Less than 1 mg/L is considered low risk
- 1 to 3 mg/L is considered average risk
- Above 3 mg/L may be considered higher risk and may prompt further assessment
It is important to remember that results are interpreted in context. A single reading does not mean a diagnosis. The role of the test is to inform, not to confirm.
Supporting better health decisions
CRP testing is a small part of a much larger picture. It supports early identification of potential issues and helps guide personalised recommendations. While the test itself is simple, the information it provides can add meaningful value to your long-term health plan.
To learn more about what’s included in the Life First Men’s and Women’s Comprehensive Health Program, visit our program page or contact the team to request a call back.
References:
- American Heart Association. Inflammation and Heart Disease.
- Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). Red Book – Guidelines for preventive activities in general practice, 10th ed.
Back to posts
