Heart Disease Facts

• Over 33% of all Americans who have had a heart attack show no symptoms beforehand
• 85% of sudden heart attacks may be prevented if condition diagnosed early enough to prescribe treatment
• Coronary Artery Disease claims more lives than lung, colon, prostate and breast cancer combined
• Cardiac Scoring is at least ten times more powerful a predictor of coronary artery disease than cholesterol screening
• 45% of all heart attacks occur in people under the age of 65
• 44% of women who have had heart attacks die within a year of the attack
• Women are ten times more likely to die of heart disease than breast cancer

Overview

What is Cardiac Scoring?

Cardiac Scoring is a non-invasive, fast, convenient and painless Computed Tomography exam, more commonly known as CAT Scanning, which accurately determines how much plaque buildup is in your coronary arteries.

Do I need a doctor's referral to have this test performed?

Yes. Under new NYS Department of Health guidelines, a physicians referral is necessary.

How is the test performed?

During the exam, you will lie on the CT bed as it moves slowly into the scanner, you may be asked to hold your breath. The scan shouldn't take more than 5 minutes. There are no injections given.

What do I need to do to prepare for an examination?

Absolutely nothing. You can eat your regular meals and take any prescribed medication. Please arrive on time.

How is the test interpreted and what does my score mean?

The amount of calcification present in the coronary arteries is converted into a score. Calcification is a bone-like substance telling us that there is plaque buildup. The higher the score, the more plaque there is. The higher the score, the greater the risk of heart attack.

Will my test be covered by insurance?

At this time, most insurance companies do not cover this exam. However, please check with your plan regarding preventive screening services.

For more information on cardiac health, please visit:

MUSCHealth.com