HsCRP and Atherogenic Index as Markers of Cardiovascular Risk in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

Abstract

Background: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is associated with increased cardiovascular risk due to chronic inflammation and atherogenic dyslipidemia. Highsensitivity  C-reactive Protein (hsCRP) and the Atherogenic Index of Plasma (AIP) have emerged as potential biomarkers for identifying cardiometabolic risk, however, their combined relationship with ischemic heart disease remains inadequately explored. To evaluate the association of hsCRP and Atherogenic Index of Plasma with lipid profile and ischemic heart disease among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Materials and methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional observational study was carried out in the Department of Biochemistry, Chittagong Medical College, Department of Endocrinology of Chittagong Medical College Hospital and Chattogram Diabetic Hospital. ‘One hundred (100)  type 2 diabetes mellitus patient were included in the study  by nonprobability consecutive sampling. Serum hsCRP, lipid profile parameters and AIP were measured using standard laboratory methods.’ ‘Comparative analysis, Pearson correlation, independent sample t-test, and multiple logistic regression were performed to assess relationships between inflammatory status and atherogenic lipid indices.’

Results: ‘Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus ischemic heart disease demonstrated significantly higher hsCRP, triglyceride, and LDL-cholesterol levels compared with those without ischemic heart disease (p < 0.01).’ ‘Correlation analysis revealed significant positive relationships between hsCRP and total cholesterol (r = 0.292) triglycerides (r = 0.325), LDL-cholesterol (r = 0.279) and AIP (r = 0.286). Individuals with hsCRP >3 mg/L showed a significantly higher prevalence of ischemic heart disease (p = 0.009) and greater mean AIP values (p = 0.0001).’ ‘Multiple logistic regression analysis identified triglycerides and LDL-cholesterol as independent predictors of elevated hsCRP, while AIP remained a strong predictor after adjustment for ischemic heart disease (OR = 9.35, p = 0.002).’

Conclusion: ‘Elevated hsCRP is strongly associated with atherogenic lipid abnormalities and increased cardiovascular risk in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The combined assessment of inflammatory markers and Atherogenic Index of Plasma may enhance early cardiovascular risk stratification beyond traditional lipid profile parameters.’

JCMCTA 2026 ; 37 (1) : 169-175