Four tagging SNPs (rs2808629, rs3093077, rs1130864 and rs2808634) within CRP region were genotyped for all the participants. The rs2808629 (G allele) was significantly associated with increased susceptibility to DR (OR = 1.296, p = 0.006). This association remained significant after adjustment for confounding factors, including HbA1c levels, duration of diabetes, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, BMI and sex (OR = 1.261, p = 0.030). No significant association with DR severity was observed (p  =  0.387 for trend analysis). The gene discussed is CRP; the disease is diabetes mellitus.