Study Finds CAC Heart Scans Offer Limited Value for Many 0-Risk Patients
Updated
Updated · The Washington Post · Aug 28
Study Finds CAC Heart Scans Offer Limited Value for Many 0-Risk Patients
3 articles · Updated · The Washington Post · Aug 28
Summary
New research found coronary artery calcium, or CAC, scans often add little useful information for many people being evaluated for heart disease risk.
The test measures plaque in arteries feeding the heart and can still help patients at intermediate risk, where results may better refine treatment decisions.
For people outside that middle group, the scan may offer limited insight even as heart disease remains the No. 1 killer of U.S. men and women.
The findings suggest routine heart screening should stay focused on regular checkups and doctor-patient discussions about overall cardiovascular risk.