Investigators reviewed previously published trials to perform a meta analysis on three blood tests and found that they were all associated with a risk for heart disease.

They found that an elevated C-reactive Protein (CRP) was a risk. CRP is elevated when there is inflammation going on somewhere in the body. Elevated fibrogen levels, which indicates an increased tendency towards clotting, were also a risk. An increased white blood cell count (WBC) was also a risk.

This is consistent with many of the new studies, which show that there is likely an infectious component to heart disease. A WBC count greater than 8.5 was found to be the cutoff. Decreased albumin levels were also a factor which could indicate a relative protein deficiency and excess of carbohydrates.

JAMA. 1998;279:1477-1482

Dr. Drucker’s comments: This was reported back in 1998. So we have known for some time that cholesterol is not the whole story. I commonly check WBC, CRP, albumin, homocysteine and even iron. All are significant indicators of risk for heart disease. If these are out of balance, they can all be managed and brought into balance, which is just as important as lowering cholesterol.

Center for Advanced Medicine
4403 Manchester Ave., Suite 107
Encinitas, California 92024
Monday from 9-5 ~ Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 9-6 ~ Friday from 9-2
Phone: (760) 632-9042
Fax: (760)632-0574
www.CamHealthTalk.com
Map and driving directions

Note: "The information contained on this website and in the audio portions is for information purposes only and is not to be used in lieu of your Health Care practitioners medical advice."