A bit more data on "markers of risk" is needed. Did you know that some of the "markers" that medicine has discovered over the years are in fact linked to other things that we do, or how we look? Perhaps you have heard of some of these "markers": C-reactive protein (CRP), fibrinogen, intercellular adhesion molecule-1, interleukin-6 (IL-6), P-selectin, and tissue necrosis factor receptor-2. Isoprostanes and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1). In the ordinary course of things, none of these should be part of your blood tests. But all are related to your total body fat, body mass index, waist size, sex, age, smoking, aspirin, alcohol intake, blood pressure, diabetes, menopausal status (women only), hormone replacement therapy (women only), and physical activity. A relatively small increase in adipose (fat) tissue corresponds to an increase of 1.7 mg/L in CRP concentration among the women, with a similar but smaller increase for men.
Now, getting back to the question: "I have no risk factors" that should be stated as "I do have a risk factor" if ANY first degree relative had an early cardiovascular event (an aneurysm counts). When we tabulate our risk, the biomarkers do not count as much as our true reflection in the mirror (and it had better not be holding a cigarette).
Please keep in mind that this blog is for discussion purposes only and one should always discuss diagnoses and treatment with their individual provider.
Related Information:
Learn more about heart disease causes and risk factors.
Prevention is still the best treatment, so take some time to look through our diet and exercise resources on partner site MyDietExercise.
Understanding Heart Conditions
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