2 Sept 2024 • A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine highlights that high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP), LDL cholesterol, and lipoprotein(a) levels measured in middle-aged women can predict cardiovascular events over a 30-year period.

• Elevated levels of these biomarkers, measured at baseline, significantly forecast risk of major cardiovascular events, including myocardial infarction, stroke, and cardiovascular death.
• Specifically, women in the highest quintile of CRP showed a 70% increased risk, LDL cholesterol a 36% increase, and lipoprotein(a) a 33% increase compared to those in the lowest quintile.
• Combining these measures offered the most comprehensive risk assessment, underscoring the importance of extending cardiovascular risk prediction beyond the traditional 10-year framework.

This research highlights the need to extend cardiovascular risk assessments beyond the typical 10-year frame, advocating for earlier and more proactive prevention strategies.x

Source: NEJM | Read full story