Inflammation is an important component of active atherosclerotic disease.C-reactive protein (CRP)is a non-specific inflammatory marker that is increased in inflammatory conditions.Newer more sensitive assays(high sensitivity CRP) can detect the low levels of inflammation associated with vascular disease.CRP levels cangive further risk assessment to individuals beyond predictions from traditional risk factors.This measurement is mostuseful in helping to discriminate risk in intermediate risk patients such as metabolic syndrome patients.Exercise andweight loss have been shown to significantly lower CRP levels.Lipid lowering therapies,especially with the statinclass of medications,also lower CRP levels.A reduction in inflammation may be an important component of plaquestabilization and contribute to cardiovascular risk reduction.(J Geriatr Cardiol 2004;1:17-20.) Inflammation is an important component of active atherosclerotic disease. C-reactive protein (CRP) is a non-specific inflammatory marker that is increased in inflammatory conditions. Newer more sensitive assays (high sensitivity CRP) can detect the low levels of inflammation associated with vascular disease. CRP levels cangive further risk assessment to individuals beyond predictions from traditional risk factors. This measurement is mostuseful in helping to discriminate risk in intermediate risk patients such as metabolic syndrome patients. Exercise and weight loss have been shown to significantly lower CRP levels. Lipid lowering therapies, especially with the statinclass of medications, also lower CRP levels. A reduction in inflammation may be an important component of plaquestabilization and contribute to cardiovascular risk reduction. (J Geriatr Cardiol 2004; 1: 17-20.)