Inflammation Increases Chances of Heart Disease in People With Diabetes

C-reactive protein as a predictor of cardiovascular risk on a population with a high prevalence of diabetes, by L.G. Best and colleagues. Circ 112:1289–1295, 2005.

What is the problem and what is known about it so far?

A substance known as C-reactive protein is related to inflammation, which researchers think is linked to cardiovascular disease (disease of the heart and blood vessels). The researchers wanted to see whether C-reactive protein helped identify people who are more likely to get heart and blood vessel disease.

Who was studied?

The study included 3,277 American Indians, a group in which diabetes is quite common.

How was the study done?

Participants had a physical exam, completed a health survey, and had blood drawn for lab tests. The blood tests measured for C-reactive protein, tests to see how well the body handled glucose and insulin, and blood tests to determine how healthy the participants were.

What did the researchers find?

There was a strong link between C-reactive protein levels and the chances of getting heart and blood vessel disease. Participants with high C-reactive protein were more likely to be women, more likely to have diabetes, were more overweight, and had more signs of heart and blood vessel disease.

What are the limitations of the study?

The study included only American Indians, and may not apply to other ethnic groups. Some people with very high levels of C-reactive protein were not included in the study, which could affect the results. The study included people who may have had some heart and blood vessel disease at the beginning of the study, which could alter the results.

What are the implications of the study?

C-reactive protein is an important clue that people might get heart and blood vessel disease. Testing levels of C-reactive protein may be an important part of a medical exam.