A groundbreaking 2025 Scientific Statement from the American College of Cardiology (ACC) has just changed the way we think about heart health. For decades, we’ve focused on “bad” cholesterol (LDL), but we now know that’s only half the story.
The new culprit taking center stage? Chronic, low-grade inflammation.
The Big Discovery
Research now shows that even if your cholesterol is perfectly normal, you could still be at high risk for a heart attack or stroke if your inflammation levels are high.
In fact, for people already taking statins, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP)—the primary marker for inflammation—is often a stronger predictor of future heart events than cholesterol levels.
The study recommends universal screening of hsCRP alongside your regular cholesterol panel.
Lower Risk: hsCRP < 1 mg/L.
Average Risk: hsCRP 1 to 3 mg/L.
Higher Risk: hsCRP > 3 mg/L.
3 Ways to Fight Back:
The good news? Inflammation is “actionable.” You can lower your risk through these proven steps:
1. Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Switch to the Mediterranean or DASH diet. Focus on fruits, vegetables, nuts, olive oil, and fatty fish (such as salmon), which are high in Omega-3s.
2. Move Your Body: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. This helps clear inflammatory markers from your system.
3. Medical Breakthroughs: For those with stable heart disease, the FDA has approved low-dose colchicine (an inexpensive anti-inflammatory) to help prevent recurrent events.
The Bottom line:
The time for taking action has now arrived”. Don’t just ask your doctor about your cholesterol—ask about your hsCRP levels too.
