This presentation is based on a literature search using PubMed, aiming to evaluate the utility of various measures of salivary cortisol as a biomarker in relation to cardiovascular risk factors. In particular, the presentation focuses on a discussion on how these results may vary depending on measurement and data analysis. Background: The altered cortisol is sometimes regarded as a warning reaction essential part of the survival strategy of living organisms. An often asked question is "Is it unhealthy to have an increased or decreased cortisol awakening response?" In particular, correlations between altered cortisol levels and cardiovascular risk factors have been discussed. The anti-inflammatory properties of exogenous cortisol are well described. However, empirical data on endogenous cortisol and its correlations with inflammatory markers are few. This presentation is based on a literature search using PubMed, aiming to evaluate the utility of various measures of salivary cortisol and its correlation with various inflammatory markers such as interleukines, acute phase proteins, and growth factors. The presentation focuses on a discussion on how these results may vary depending on measurement and data analysis.