A Quick Scan Could Predict Heart Attack Risk
A 10-minute scan may offer critical insights into whether someone is at risk of experiencing a heart attack or developing coronary artery disease. This non-invasive procedure, known as a coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan, has become an essential tool for early detection and prevention.
Lynda Hollander, a 64-year-old social worker and runner from West Orange, New Jersey, noticed her cholesterol levels rising after menopause. Concerned about her health, she sought the advice of a cardiologist. Her family had a long history of heart-related surgeries, and with her age, sex, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels, she was identified as being at risk of a heart attack within the next decade.
Despite making changes to her diet and attempting to lose weight, her cholesterol levels remained high. Her doctor then recommended a CAC scan to assess her risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). The scan uses a CT scan to create images of the heart’s blood vessels, measuring the buildup of calcium deposits in the arteries. This helps predict the likelihood of CAD before any symptoms appear.
According to the CDC, over 800,000 Americans experience a heart attack or stroke each year, while about 375,000 die from CAD annually. In 2020 alone, approximately 138,000 Americans died from stroke, and one person dies from some form of heart disease every 33 seconds. These numbers are increasing, particularly among younger individuals.
CAD occurs when plaque—made up of calcium, fats, and other substances—builds up in the arteries. Over time, this narrowing of the arteries restricts blood flow to the heart, increasing the risk of a heart attack or even heart failure. A CAC scan allows doctors to measure the amount of plaque in the arteries and determine the appropriate treatment to reduce the risk of a heart attack.
Unlike other tests that measure blood flow, the CAC scan focuses solely on the presence of plaque. It is typically recommended for individuals with a family history of early CAD, those with intermediate risk for heart attacks, or those with conditions such as high cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure, or obesity.
However, it is not advised for people who have already experienced a heart attack, have a heart stent, or have undergone coronary artery bypass graft surgery. The scan also does not serve as a general screening tool for high-risk individuals.
The results of a CAC scan are measured using a calcium score, which ranges from zero to over 1,000. A score of 100 or less indicates mild evidence of CAD, while scores between 100 and 400 suggest a moderate level of disease. Those with scores above 400 have strong evidence of CAD.
Dr. Robert Segal, a board-certified cardiologist, emphasizes the importance of the CAC scan. “I’ve seen too many patients suffer heart attacks that could have been prevented by knowing their Coronary Artery Calcium Score,” he said. “The CAC Score is one of the most powerful tools we have to detect heart disease early, before symptoms appear. I strongly recommend getting a CAC scan. It can truly save lives.”
Despite its benefits, the CAC scan is often not covered by insurance and can cost between $100 and $400. For Lynda Hollander, the scan provided the first indication of what was happening inside her arteries. She received a calcium test score in the 50s, prompting her doctor to prescribe Crestor, a statin medication, three days a week, and Repatha, a drug used to lower bad cholesterol, twice a month.
This case highlights the importance of early detection and proactive health management. By identifying potential risks through advanced imaging techniques, individuals can take steps to prevent serious cardiac events and improve their long-term health outcomes.
