Effect of Alzheimer Caregiving on Circulating Levels of C-Reactive Protein and Other Biomarkers Relevant to Cardiovascular Disease Risk: A Longitudinal Study

Abstract

Duration of caregiving and being a caregiver per se were both associated with chronic low-grade inflammation as indicated by elevated CRP and TNF-α levels, respectively. Conversely, death of the AD spouse was associated with lower CRP and sICAM-1 levels. The findings indicate that chronic caregiving of those with dementia may result in increased inflammation and, thereby, possibly increased CVD risk.