Myths vs facts: CRP Entzündung and Wechseljahre

C-reactive protein (CRP) is a non-specific inflammatory marker produced by the liver. During menopause, estrogen decline can mildly increase inflammatory activity – a well-documented physiological link. However, elevated CRP is not specific to menopause; it can result from infections, chronic diseases, smoking, or obesity. The myth that CRP alone diagnoses 'menopause inflammation' is false. In reality, average CRP rises only modestly, and many women maintain normal levels. Persistently high CRP (>3 mg/L) warrants attention as it correlates with cardiovascular risk – which itself increases after menopause. Fact: Menopause is a window of heightened vulnerability, but CRP is just one piece. Lifestyle interventions (exercise, diet, stress reduction) can lower inflammatory markers. Genetic tests for single SNPs (e.g., in the CRP gene) have negligible clinical utility for prediction. Evidence is strong (human-level) based on epidemiological studies and reviews. Safety note: CRP must be interpreted in full clinical context, never as a standalone diagnostic.