Distribution of C-reactive protein and its relation to arterial hypertension in a country representing a high-risk region for cardiovascular diseases

Aims. The high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) measurement is recommended by ESC ESH Guidelines 2003 in patients with arterial hypertension. The aim of this study was to assess distribution of hs-CRP in Poland, a country representing a high-risk region for CVD. Methods and results. In 2002, the cross-sectional survey NATPOL PLUS was performed in a representative sample of adults in Poland aged 18-94 years. The questionnaire, anthropometrical and blood pressure measurements, glycaemia, lipidogram and hs-CRP were performed in 2333 respondents. The results of hs-CRP>10 mg l were excluded from analysis. Mean hs-CRP was 2.03±2.14 mg l (2.13±2.12 mg l in women vs 1.91±2.16 mg l in men; p