Other Factors
What other factors contribute to heart disease risk?
- C-Reactive Protein (CRP) – CRP (as a high sensitive test) is a marker of inflammation in the body. Because atherosclerosis includes an inflammatory process, measurements of CRP may be helpful to estimate an individual’s risk for developing cardiovascular disease and determining treatment. CRP should not be measured during any acute illness, and is not useful in determining cardiovascular risk in individuals who have chronic inflammatory conditions.
- Lipoprotein (a) - Lipoprotein (a) {also referred to as Lp(a)} is a cholesterol particle very similar to LDL-cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol). High levels of Lp(a) contribute to atherosclerosis and make the blood more susceptible to clot formation. Lp(a) levels are determined by genetics: If you have a positive family history for premature heart disease you should have your Lp(a) level checked. Elevated Lp(a) levels appear to have their worst effect when there are other risk factors present, or when the LDL-cholesterol is high or the Total Cholesterol:HDL-cholesterol ratio is high. Treatment is targeted at reducing these other risk factors to lessen the risk associated with Lp(a).
- Alcohol - Research has shown that the risk of heart disease in people who drink moderate amounts of alcohol (an average of one drink for women or two drinks for men per day) is lower than in non-drinkers. However, it is not recommended that non-drinkers begin to use alcohol for a perceived health benefit. There are many negative aspects to alcohol consumption. Drinking too much alcohol can increase blood pressure; high triglycerides and can lead to heart failure, cancer and stroke.
It is important to know that there is still much to learn about the causes of heart disease and stroke. For example, some individuals will not have any of the risk factors described here, however they may experience a heart attack; conversely some individuals may have all of these risk factors, and never experience a heart attack or stroke. It is important that you discuss your risk level with your health care professional.
Please visit the Heart and Stroke Foundation website for detailed information on Heart Disease and Stroke.