A Simple Test that Could Help Prevent Heart Disease

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death globally, accounting for 32% of total fatalities. Despite this alarming statistic, individuals can take proactive measures to mitigate their risk of developing this condition.

Alongside healthier lifestyle choices, a specific screening known as the coronary artery calcium (CAC) score can play a crucial role in identifying early signs of heart disease, according to health experts.

Understanding the CAC Score

The CAC score is obtained through a specialized CT scan that detects calcium deposits in the arteries of the heart. Dr. Robert Segal, a board-certified cardiologist at Manhattan Cardiology and co-founder of LabFinder, explains this process.

“Calcium buildup is indicative of plaque accumulation, a significant contributor to heart disease,” Dr. Segal shared. The correlation is clear: a higher CAC score signals a greater risk of heart attack, stroke, or other serious cardiac issues.

What the Scores Indicate

A CAC score of zero indicates no coronary calcium, signifying a very low risk of heart disease. Conversely, a score above 400 reflects a high risk, warns Dr. Bradley Serwer, interventional cardiologist and chief medical officer at VitalSolution.

Dr. Serwer elaborates, “The CAC score is derived from a rapid, low-dose CT scan. A specialized algorithm evaluates the calcium levels and assigns a numerical score.”

Non-Traditional Risk Assessment

The CAC score represents a non-traditional risk factor, less familiar to most people compared to common screenings like cholesterol and blood pressure tests. Dr. Segal emphasizes the growing awareness of its importance in predicting heart disease.

“More research is highlighting its ability to forecast cardiac issues, which is why we’re stressing its value,” he noted.

Taking Control of Your Heart Health

The outcomes from a CAC scan empower patients to take charge of their cardiovascular health. “It’s a game-changer for early identification of heart disease even in those without symptoms,” Dr. Segal asserted. “This opens the door for preventive measures, like lifestyle modifications or medications, to manage risk.”

If the CAC score comes back as zero, Dr. Segal suggests maintaining current healthy practices while monitoring risk factors. “A score of zero means minimal plaque, so enhancing your diet, exercising, and managing cholesterol effectively can prove beneficial,” he advised. “In contrast, a higher score necessitates collaboration with your doctor on risk reduction strategies, potentially including statin therapy.”

Generally, a score of zero may not require additional testing for five years, although further testing for those with elevated scores remains a subject for individual assessment.

Using CAC Scores Alongside Other Risk Factors

The CAC test becomes even more insightful when combined with other risk factors such as cholesterol levels, blood pressure readings, and diabetes status. “The sooner we can identify high-risk individuals, the sooner we can implement proven therapies to preempt disastrous outcomes,” stated Dr. Serwer.

Although no data confirms that simply undergoing this test extends lifespan, it is critical in determining treatment urgency and when to potentially delay or forgo aggressive medical intervention.

Safety and Limitations of the CAC Scan

Dr. Segal compares the CAC scan to mammography, describing it as fast, non-invasive, and utilizing minimal radiation exposure without the need for dye injections. “It only measures current calcium levels and cannot detect softer, non-solidified plaques,” he cautioned.

Moreover, Dr. Segal noted that even a zero CAC score does not equate to an absence of risk, particularly for individuals with diabetes or those who smoke. “This tool is most effective when paired with comprehensive health assessments,” he remarked.

Who Should Consider a CAC Score?

Individuals interested in obtaining their CAC score should start by consulting a cardiologist. Dr. Segal recommends this test for anyone aged 40 to 70 with risk factors like high cholesterol, elevated blood pressure, or a family history of heart disease.

Patients should discuss their unique risk profiles with their primary care provider to ascertain the potential benefits of the test.

Understanding Testing Protocols and Coverage

Currently, standardized guidelines for testing frequency and repeat assessments remain nonexistent. The CAC test is available in most radiology departments, and the process requires no special preparatory actions.

“There’s no need for IV contrast, fasting, or blood work prior to the test,” Dr. Serwer clarified. However, it is crucial to note that insurance coverage for the CAC test can vary significantly among plans.

Some insurance providers may classify this screening as elective or investigational, leading to denials of coverage. Medicare does not cover the cost for asymptomatic patients seeking risk stratification.

Empowering Yourself with Knowledge

Healthcare professionals are increasingly recognizing the importance of the CAC score in the realm of heart health. With the ability to preemptively identify potential risk factors, this screening serves as a vital tool in the fight against heart disease.

By taking charge of one’s health through knowledge and informed decisions based on test results, individuals can significantly impact their cardiac well-being. Empowering oneself starts with understanding risks and seeking out necessary screenings and treatments.