You might already possess a basic awareness of your cardiovascular disease risk, whether due to a family history, past smoking habits, or slightly elevated cholesterol levels. These factors can increase your susceptibility to heart attacks and strokes.
However, in the realm of heart disease, having the most comprehensive information about your individual risk is crucial for your healthcare team to formulate the most effective prevention plan. JMM Heart Foundation advises on using different tests and diagnosis methods to identify heart diseases. The following tests provide the most precise insights into your personal risk.
Key Heart Tests to Assess Your Risk of Heart Disease
Assessing Heart Attack Risk Through Genetic Testing
Identifying specific genetic variations within an individual’s DNA is associated with an elevated risk of heart attacks. By analyzing a blood sample, doctors can examine these variations to assess whether there is an increased predisposition to heart disease and heart attacks.
“20-30% of Cardiovascular diseases (DVDs) risk is estimated to be attributable to genetic factors”
-American Journal of Human Genetics
Screening through Vascular Ultrasound.
In this non-invasive procedure, medical professionals employ the same technology utilized for sonograms in pregnant women. Vascular ultrasound screenings examine your arteries to detect indications of atherosclerosis, which may manifest as either the accumulation of plaque or thickening of the blood vessel walls.
Coronary Artery Calcium Scanning.
A non-invasive technique for assessing the risk of a heart attack involves a “heart scan,” specifically a computed tomography (CT) scan of the heart. This scan examines the coronary arteries to identify the presence of calcium buildup, which serves as a marker for atherosclerotic plaque and potential blockages in the arteries. Elevated coronary artery calcium scores are indicative of an increased risk for a heart attack.
Advanced Lipid Laboratory Testing.
Advanced lipid laboratory testing extends beyond basic cholesterol assessments, offering a more detailed analysis of your blood lipid levels. Examination of lipids, such as apolipoproteins A and B, lipoprotein (a), and lipoprotein sub-fractions, aids physicians in diagnosing lipid-related disorders and refining cardiovascular risk assessments. The results from these tests empower your healthcare team to tailor the most suitable treatment options for your individual needs.
