A New Tool for Early Detection of Heart Disease
A quick 10-minute scan could be the key to identifying whether someone is at risk of a heart attack or developing coronary artery disease (CAD). This non-invasive test, known as a coronary artery calcium scan, provides valuable insights into the condition of the arteries and can help prevent serious health complications before symptoms arise.
Lynda Hollander, a 64-year-old social worker and runner from West Orange, New Jersey, found herself concerned about her health after noticing that her cholesterol levels had increased following menopause. With a family history of heart-related surgeries, she decided to consult a cardiologist to assess her risk. Based on her age, sex, cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and family medical history, she was advised that she might be at risk of experiencing a heart attack within the next decade.
Despite making lifestyle changes such as eating healthier and attempting to lose weight, her cholesterol levels remained high. Her doctor then recommended a coronary artery calcium scan to determine her risk of developing CAD. This scan, also referred to as a heart scan, uses CT technology to capture images of the heart’s blood vessels. It measures the buildup of calcium deposits in the arteries, which can indicate the presence of plaque and the likelihood of future heart issues.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 800,000 Americans suffer a heart attack or stroke each year, with around 375,000 deaths attributed to CAD annually. In 2020 alone, more than 138,000 people died from stroke, and an American dies from some form of heart disease every 33 seconds. These alarming statistics highlight the growing concern surrounding heart disease, particularly among younger individuals.
CAD occurs when plaque—made up of calcium, fats, and other substances—builds up in the arteries. Over time, this plaque can narrow the arteries, restricting blood flow to and from the heart. Without proper circulation, the heart becomes vulnerable to attacks and may even fail, leading to life-threatening consequences. A coronary artery calcium scan helps doctors detect the extent of plaque buildup, allowing them to recommend appropriate treatments to reduce the risk of a heart attack.
Unlike other diagnostic tests that measure blood flow, the coronary calcium scan focuses solely on the amount of plaque present in the arteries. It is most suitable for individuals with a family history of early CAD, those with intermediate risk factors, and people who have a history of tobacco use, high cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure, or obesity.
However, it is not recommended for those at high risk of heart attacks, individuals who have previously experienced a heart attack, or those who have undergone procedures such as stent placement or bypass surgery.
The results of the scan are measured using a calcium score, which ranges from zero to over 1,000. A score of 100 or less indicates mild CAD, while scores between 100 and 400 suggest moderate evidence of the disease. Those with scores above 400 show strong signs of CAD. According to Dr. Robert Segal, a board-certified cardiologist, the CAC score is one of the most powerful tools for early detection of heart disease. He emphasizes that many patients could have avoided heart attacks if they had been aware of their CAC scores earlier.
The scan is typically not covered by insurance and can cost between $100 and $400. For Lynda Hollander, the results were eye-opening. She received a calcium score in the 50s, which marked the first indication of what was happening inside her arteries. Based on this information, she was prescribed Crestor, a statin medication used to manage cholesterol, three times a week, and Repatha, a drug to lower bad cholesterol, twice a month.
This case highlights the importance of proactive health monitoring and the potential benefits of early detection through advanced diagnostic tools like the coronary artery calcium scan. By identifying risks early, individuals can take necessary steps to protect their heart health and potentially prevent life-threatening events.
