Role of High-Sensitivity C-reactive Protein (Hs-CRP) in Non-communicable Diseases: A Review

Non-communicable diseases like cardiovascular diseases, cerebrovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, and cancer are very common causes of death worldwide. Therefore, the need to search for novel, affordable, and easily accessible biomarkers and risk factors for non-communicable diseases continues, which can predict the future risk of having these diseases with greater accuracy and precision. In this context, among available biomarkers, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (Hs-CRP) is considered to be the best-suited marker. Various drug intervention trials demonstrated positive results in reducing Hs-CRP in individuals with raised levels. Numerous pharmacological and non-pharmacologic interventions in the form of lifestyle modifications, exercise, and cessation of smoking are being investigated to study their effect on reducing serum C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. This review article discusses the role of Hs-CRP and its isoforms in the pathogenesis of various disease conditions, factors affecting its serum concentration, its prognostic value, and its comparison with other risk factors. Further, its clinical significance in chronic inflammatory and degenerative diseases of the nervous system and other common non-communicable diseases, including recent advances in the management of various diseases, has also been discussed.