C-Reactive Protein Levels Vary by Race

Levels of a blood protein linked to inflammation vary by race, a new study finds. The study looked at C-reactive protein (CRP). People with long-term high levels may be more likely to develop heart disease. Researchers reviewed 89 studies about CRP. They included more than 221,000 people. Researchers broke down CRP results for this large group by race. They found that blacks had the highest average level, 2.6 milligrams per liter (mg/L) of blood. Levels for Hispanics were nearly as high, 2.51. They were followed by South Asians (2.34) and whites (2.03). East Asians had the lowest levels, an average of 1.01. Some doctors look at CRP levels to help them decide when someone needs treatment with a statin drug. These drugs reduce LDL cholesterol and inflammation. They have been shown to reduce heart disease deaths.