The High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) blood test measures tiny amounts of C-reactive protein in your blood, a marker linked to inflammation in the body. Doctors often use it to assess heart disease risk and detect hidden inflammation that may not show obvious symptoms.

Because inflammation plays a key role in cardiovascular health, metabolic conditions, and overall wellbeing, understanding your hs-CRP levels can provide valuable insight into long-term health risks.

This guide explains what it is, how it works, what your results mean, and how you can book a comprehensive blood test to check your High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP).

What is high-sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP)?

High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) is a blood marker that shows how much inflammation is present in your body, even at very low levels. Think of it as a smoke detector—it doesn’t tell you exactly where the fire is, but it signals that something could be wrong. When inflammation is ongoing, it can put stress on your blood vessels, raising the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other chronic health issues.

Unlike a standard CRP test, the hs-CRP test is more precise and can pick up even tiny changes in inflammation. This makes it especially useful for spotting early warning signs before bigger health problems develop.

Quick facts:

• Detects very low levels of inflammation in the body.
• Helps assess risk for heart disease and other metabolic conditions.
• Often used alongside cholesterol and other heart health tests.

By highlighting hidden inflammation, the High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) blood test gives doctors and patients a clearer picture of long-term health risks.

Why is High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) important?

High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) is important because it highlights inflammation that can quietly damage the body over time. Chronic inflammation is linked to heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and other metabolic conditions that affect both health and longevity. By measuring hs-CRP levels, doctors can detect early signs of risk before serious problems occur, giving you the chance to make changes that protect your future health.

In Australia, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death, responsible for around one in four deaths each year. Globally, the World Health Organization reports that over 17 million people die annually from cardiovascular conditions, many of which are linked to inflammation.

Monitoring hs-CRP isn’t just about heart health—it also provides insight into how your metabolism and immune system are working. Elevated results may suggest your body is under stress, even if you feel fine. With this knowledge, you can work with your healthcare provider to reduce inflammation through diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes.

Understanding your hs-CRP levels empowers you to take control of your health, lower risks, and build habits that support long-term wellbeing.

When should you get a High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) test?

You may not always feel inflammation in your body, but testing hs-CRP can reveal early warning signs. Doctors often recommend it in the following situations:

• Unexplained symptoms such as ongoing fatigue, muscle aches, or low-grade fevers.
• A family history of heart disease, stroke, or diabetes.
• Existing chronic conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, or type 2 diabetes.
• During pregnancy, if your doctor is monitoring risk factors for complications.
• After recovery from infections or illness, to check ongoing inflammation.
• When referred by a GP as part of a broader heart health or metabolic check-up.
• Alongside other blood tests such as cholesterol, glucose, ALT or Albumin for a complete picture of your health.

Testing at the right time can give you and your doctor insights into hidden risks and guide preventive steps before problems escalate.

How does the High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) test work in Australia?

The High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) test is a simple blood test that measures low levels of C-reactive protein linked to inflammation. No fasting is usually required, but your doctor may order it alongside other blood tests—such as cholesterol or glucose—that do require fasting.

When it comes to access, the test can be requested through your GP, often as part of a heart health or metabolic check. Many people choose to include it in comprehensive blood test panels that screen multiple markers at once, giving a broader picture of overall health.

In terms of cost, Medicare may cover the hs-CRP test if it’s deemed clinically necessary by your doctor. If not covered, patients can expect to pay privately, with the average High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) test cost in Australia ranging from $30–$60 depending on the clinic or pathology service.

Whether ordered through a GP referral or as part of a preventive health package, the hs-CRP blood test is widely available across Australia, making it an accessible way to assess inflammation and long-term health risks.

What do my High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) test results mean?

Your hs-CRP results show how much inflammation is in your body. Low levels usually mean your risk of heart disease is lower, while higher levels may signal greater risk or ongoing health issues. It’s important to remember that hs-CRP is just one marker and should be considered alongside other tests like cholesterol or insulin.

Here’s a simple breakdown of results:

If your results are elevated, your doctor may recommend further tests to confirm the cause. By tracking hs-CRP together with other health markers, you can get a clearer picture of your cardiovascular and metabolic health.

High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) in context with other tests

The High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) test is valuable, but it tells only part of the story. Since hs-CRP measures inflammation, doctors usually interpret it alongside other blood markers to get a full picture of your health.

For example, cholesterol levels and Apolipoprotein B show how fats are moving through your bloodstream, while hs-CRP highlights whether inflammation may be making those fats more dangerous for your arteries. Similarly, glucose and HbA1c help measure blood sugar control, which is closely linked with inflammation and metabolic stress.

By combining hs-CRP results with these related markers, healthcare providers can better identify risks for heart disease, diabetes, and other long-term conditions. This broader view makes your results more reliable and gives you clearer guidance on the steps you can take to improve your health.

Lifestyle and practical steps for High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP)

Inflammation in the body is shaped by everyday choices, and your hs-CRP levels often reflect how well your lifestyle supports long-term health. While you can’t control every factor, research shows that small, consistent changes in daily habits can make a real difference.

1. Eat an anti-inflammatory diet – Prioritise fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and omega-3 rich foods such as fish, walnuts, or flaxseed. Limit processed foods, added sugars, and excess alcohol.
2. Stay active: Engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days. Brisk walking, cycling, or swimming can lower inflammation and support heart health.
3. Maintain a healthy weight: Excess body fat, especially around the waist, is linked to higher hs-CRP. Balanced nutrition and regular activity help reduce this risk.
4. Manage stress: Chronic stress can raise inflammatory markers. Mindfulness, meditation, journaling, or yoga can help restore balance.
5. Prioritise sleep: Aim for 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep each night. Rest supports repair, immune balance, and regulation of inflammation.
6. Avoid smoking: Tobacco use significantly increases inflammation and raises hs-CRP levels. Quitting offers immediate and long-term benefits for your health.

These supportive steps are most effective when combined into a sustainable lifestyle. They not only influence hs-CRP levels but also strengthen overall cardiovascular and metabolic health. The best starting point is testing. Once you know your levels, you can take personalised steps.

FAQs about the High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) Test in Australia

How much does a High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) test cost in Australia?

The average High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) test cost in Australia is around $30–$60 if paid privately. Costs may vary by clinic or pathology provider.

Is the High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) test covered by Medicare?

Yes, Medicare may cover the hs-CRP test if a GP considers it clinically necessary. If ordered as part of routine screening without a referral, you may need to pay privately.

Do I need a referral for a High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) test?

In most cases, a GP referral is required for Medicare coverage. Private health packages may also offer hs-CRP testing without referral as part of a broader panel.

Can you get a High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) test during pregnancy?

Yes. Doctors may recommend it in pregnancy if there are concerns about inflammation or related health risks. Always follow your GP or specialist’s advice.

What symptoms suggest I should get an hs-CRP test?

Unexplained fatigue, muscle aches, recurring low-grade fevers, or a family history of heart disease or diabetes may prompt your doctor to order this test.

What is a normal range for the High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) test?

Results under 1.0 mg/L are considered low risk, 1.0–3.0 mg/L moderate, and above 3.0 mg/L high risk. Your doctor will interpret these alongside other tests.

Can hs-CRP be tested with other markers?

Yes. It is often combined with cholesterol, glucose, and other heart and metabolic markers to give a clearer picture of your overall health.

Conclusion

The High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) blood test is a simple yet powerful way to detect hidden inflammation in the body. By measuring even very low levels of C-reactive protein, it provides early clues about risks linked to heart disease, metabolic conditions, and overall wellbeing. Unlike other markers, hs-CRP focuses specifically on inflammation, giving doctors valuable context when combined with cholesterol, glucose, and other blood tests.

Knowing your hs-CRP levels is more than just a number—it’s a chance to take control of your long-term health. With this information, you and your healthcare provider can make smarter decisions about lifestyle changes, preventive care, and treatment plans tailored to your needs.

Take control of your health today. Sign up for our comprehensive blood test and get clear insights into your High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) and more than 50 other key markers.

References

• Wilson, A. M. (2006). The novel role of C-reactive protein in cardiovascular disease.
• Whelton, S. P., et al. (2013). Elevated High‑Sensitivity C‑Reactive Protein as a Risk Marker.
• Tong, D. C., et al. (2018). High‑sensitivity C‑Reactive Protein Is a Predictor of Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction in Patients with Ischemic Heart Disease.
• Wang, Z. (2010). C‑reactive protein: an independent predictor of CVD in Aboriginal people.

Ridker, P. M., et al. (2024). Inflammation and Cholesterol as Predictors of Cardiovascular Events.