Aspirus Promotes Early Heart Disease Detection with Coronary Calcium Score Scan
2/20/2025
Dr. Daniel Krause, Aspirus Cardiologist
Heart disease
remains the leading cause of death in the United States, often developing
silently before symptoms appear. In recognition of Heart Month, Aspirus Health
is raising awareness about an advanced, non-invasive test, the coronary calcium
score scan, which helps identify heart disease before symptoms arise.
This quick and
painless CT scan measures calcium buildup in the coronary arteries, providing a
clearer picture of a person’s heart health. The scan results in a numerical
calcium score that helps doctors assess a patient's risk for heart disease.
"The results do
matter," says Dr. Daniel
Krause, a cardiologist at Aspirus Heart Care. "A score of zero is
ideal, meaning no calcification. Most people have a score under 100, but if
it’s over 100, we take a closer look at risk factors. A score above 400 is
concerning and may lead to further evaluation, such as stress testing."
With this
information, doctors can create personalized prevention plans, including
lifestyle modifications, medication, or additional screenings if necessary.
The scan is
particularly beneficial for individuals between the ages of 40 and 70 who have
risk factors for heart disease, such as:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- A family history of
heart disease
- Smoking history
- Obesity
- A sedentary
lifestyle
- Chronic stress
Even those without
symptoms could benefit if they have one or more of these risk factors.
"This is a
great screening tool," says Dr. Krause. "It's quick, affordable, and
highly effective at helping us determine heart disease risk in patients who may
not have symptoms."
Coverage for a
coronary calcium score scan varies by insurance provider. Many insurance plans
do not cover the test, meaning patients may need to pay out-of-pocket. At
Aspirus, the average cost of the test is $99. Patients should check with their
insurance provider or health care facility for specific cost details.
Heart Month serves
as an important reminder that early detection saves lives. Individuals
concerned about their heart health are encouraged to speak with their primary
care provider or cardiologist about whether a coronary calcium score scan is
right for them. Taking action now can help reduce the risk of heart disease and
improve long-term heart health.
For more information
or to connect with an Aspirus cardiologist, visit Aspirus.org.
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