The normal C-reactive protein (CRP) level varies with age. According to a study (Table 2.), the average CRP levels for two age groups are as follows:
CRP Levels by Age Group
| Age Group | Mean CRP (mg/L) | Standard Deviation (SD) |
|---|---|---|
| 20–30 years | 1.24 | 1.18 |
| 60–70 years | 3.17 | 3.47 |
Key Insights
- Age-Related Increase: CRP levels tend to increase with age. This study shows a notable difference between the younger group (20-30 years) and the older group (60-70 years).
- Variability: There is a significant variability in CRP levels within each age group, as indicated by the standard deviations. This suggests that individual health conditions and lifestyle factors can influence CRP levels.
- Not a Diagnostic Threshold: These mean values are not strict diagnostic cutoffs, but serve as reference values. A single CRP measurement should be interpreted with other clinical findings.
- General trend: In general, older adults tend to have higher CRP levels than younger adults, indicating increased low grade inflammation with increasing age.
Understanding CRP
C-reactive protein is an inflammatory marker. It is a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation. Higher CRP levels may indicate infection, injury, or chronic inflammatory diseases.
Factors Affecting CRP Levels
Several factors can influence CRP levels, including:
- Infections: Bacterial or viral infections can cause a rapid rise in CRP.
- Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus are associated with elevated CRP.
- Obesity: Increased body fat can lead to higher levels of inflammation and CRP.
- Lifestyle: Factors like smoking and poor diet can influence CRP levels.
Practical Application
It's important to note that the above are averages, and individuals may have different normal ranges based on their health profiles. If you have concerns about your CRP levels, discuss them with a healthcare professional.
