New testing reveals heart attack risk more accurately

Coronary artery calcium testing can reveal plaque in arteries, offering a more precise estimate of a patient’s risk. Yet the test remains underused.

Coronary artery calcium testing offers insight into heart disease risks

Lynda Hollander, at 64, reflects on her family history of heart disease and her own health struggles. After noticing rising cholesterol levels post-menopause, a cardiologist advised her of a moderate risk of a heart attack. While most patients receive general lifestyle advice, Hollander found herself at a plateau despite her active lifestyle. Her doctor suggested a coronary artery calcium test, an easy CT scan that detects plaque buildup, providing an accurate risk assessment for heart disease. Despite its potential benefits, this test remains underutilized, leaving many patients unaware of their cardiovascular risk.

The underuse of coronary artery calcium testing highlights a gap in patient care. While standard risk assessments focus on broad risk factors like age and cholesterol, this specific test offers deeper insights that could lead to more personalized management strategies. In a healthcare landscape increasingly driven by precision medicine, failure to utilize such tests could prevent proactive interventions and lifestyle modifications for at-risk individuals. With more awareness and availability, this testing method could play a crucial role in reducing heart disease prevalence and fostering healthier populations.

Highlights

Greater awareness and access to advanced tests could redefine heart health strategies.