Unlocking the Hidden Potential of Calcium Scores: A Vital Tool for Heart Disease Prevention

During a recent talk on heart disease, I got the typical questions about diet and exercise. But one of the most common questions related to the use of calcium scores and when should you get one. The reality is that calcium scores are often overlooked — yet, they can play an important role in assessing and reducing your risk of a heart attack.

The Calcium Score: What Is It and How Does It Work?

A coronary artery calcium (CAC) score is a non-invasive screening test that measures the amount of calcium buildup in the coronary arteries. This buildup is a strong indicator of atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the hardening and narrowing of arteries due to plaque formation. It doesn’t directly measure plaque but rather calcium. That’s useful data since a higher calcium score correlates with a higher risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) and heart attacks.

Why Calcium Scores Are Underutilized:

Lack of Awareness: Despite the proven benefits of calcium scoring, many individuals and even healthcare professionals remain unaware of its significance in heart disease prevention. In addition, the way tests are done today as well as their interpretation is much better than it was just a few years ago. But if you or your doctor doesn’t know the latest information, you may not be getting the best care.