What is a Coronary Artery Calcium Test? Can it Help Determine My Risk for Heart Disease?
A Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) test can measure calcium deposits in your heart arteries.
Your CAC score, along with whether you have diabetes, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure, are a smoker, are overweight, and have a family history of heart attack, is a helpful tool for clinicians in determining your risk for heart disease in asymptomatic individuals.
According to the American Heart Association, the CAC test is a non-contrast (no intravenous contrast or dye) Computed Tomography (CT) scan.
It is a quick scan with low-dose radiation.
A computer calculates a CAC score based on the amount and density of the calcium deposits in the heart’s arteries.
When calcium is detected in your arteries, plaque buildup is most likely.
Plaque results from cholesterol deposits that, over time, can block the arteries in your heart and increase your risk of heart attack.
The American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association Task Force has identified guidelines for individuals who may benefit from CAC testing.
For individuals who are hesitant to start treatment for elevated cholesterol or have side effects and need to restart the medication.
Males ages 55-80 or Females ages 60-80 with few risk factors who are unsure if they would benefit from treatment with a medication.
Younger individuals age 40-55 with risk factors that increase their risk of developing heart disease.
If you had a heart attack or stroke, coronary bypass surgery, or a coronary stent, a CAC test will not provide helpful information and is not recommended.
Talk to your Healthcare Provider about your cardiovascular risks and whether a CAC test will help determine the best-guided treatment plans for you. As always, lifestyle choices such as eating healthy, exercising, and getting wellness exams are essential to maintaining good health.