RESUMO
Background: Adipose, a storage house of fat releases pro-inflammatory IL6 into circulation. One of the markers for inflammation is CRP which is raised due to any condition resulting in inflammation. Since inflammation can result in Cardiovascular disease, detection of CRP carries a great value in preventing morbidity and mortality. Methods: 569 patients above the age of 18 years, who visited the outpatient wards for examination of cardiovascular risk factors were included in the study. Detailed history, height, weight, Body mass index, were taken from all patients. Routine blood tests and CRP levels were done for all patients. CRP was done by chemi-luminiscence method. Results: Clinically raised CRP levels were seen in 3 (1.3%) of the males and 33(9.5%) of the females, while elevated CRP was seen in 64(28.7%) males and in 129 (37.3%) females. 98 (43.9%) of males and 163 (47.1%) of the females were overweight with BMI 25-20 kg/m2 and 11 (4.9%) males and 48 (13.9%) females had a BMI of over 30 kg/m2. There was considerable increase in the CRP levels as BMI increased in both males and females but no males had clinically raised CRP levels when compared to the females. Conclusion: Our study has shown a significant association of raised CRP levels with overweight and obesity. As inflammation is one of the early markers for future CVD, it is imperative to take proper action to reduce morbidity and mortality.