The Simple Test You Need To Confirm Heart Health
Ads to help pay the bills.THE TEST…
A simple screening test—the coronary artery calcium (CAC) score—may help prevent heart disease, the world’s leading cause of death, accounting for 32% of global mortality. I recently had this test, and scored 0.
The CAC score, obtained through a specialized, low-dose CT scan, measures calcium buildup in the heart’s arteries, which indicates plaque accumulation—a key precursor to heart disease. A score of zero suggests a very low risk, while a score above 400 signals a high risk, offering a clear metric for early intervention. This test’s ability to detect heart disease before symptoms arise could empower individuals to take preventive steps, potentially reducing the staggering toll of cardiovascular conditions.
The findings underscore the accessibility and practicality of the CAC scan, described as fast, noninvasive, and comparable to a mammogram in terms of minimal radiation exposure. The scan produces an “Agatston score” via specialized software, providing a precise measure of coronary calcium. Unlike traditional risk factors such as cholesterol or blood pressure, which are widely monitored, the CAC score is a “non-traditional” indicator that isn’t yet routine but offers unique predictive power. The article notes that the test, available at most radiology departments with no preparation required, could be a game-changer for those aged 40 to 70 with risk factors like high cholesterol or a family history of heart disease, though insurance coverage remains inconsistent, with costs ranging from $100 to $400.
While the CAC score is a powerful tool, experts say it has limitations and should complement, not replace, other health evaluations. It only detects calcified plaque, missing “soft” plaque that hasn’t yet solidified, and a zero score doesn’t eliminate all risk—especially in cases involving diabetes or smoking. Nevertheless, the test’s early detection capability allows for tailored prevention strategies, from lifestyle changes like improved diet and exercise to medications such as statins for those with higher scores. Experts recommend consulting a cardiologist to determine if the scan is appropriate, emphasizing its role in a broader strategy to combat heart disease, a condition that remains preventable yet pervasive due to modern lifestyle challenges like obesity and inactivity.
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