i n f o r m a t i o n

INFORMATION

The Heartcheck test measures the amount of calcium deposited in the coronary arteries (the arteries that carry blood to your heart). The results are expressed as a calcium score and calcium volume score. These calcium deposits are indicators of atherosclerotic narrowings that build up in the arteries and typically appear years before the development of heart symptoms (angina or heart attacks). The Calcium Score does not correspond directly to the percentage of narrowing in your coronary arteries; only an angiogram (cardiac catherisation) can tell you that. However, the Calcium Score provides an estimate of the severity of coronary artery disease and indicates that you may be at increased risk for heart attack later in life.

The likelihood of significant coronary heart disease and the risk of heart attack or sudden death increases as the calcium score increases.

Patients with no calcium in their coronary arteries tend to be at low risk for significant coronary artery disease or heart attacks during the next 2-5 years. The likelihood of future heart disease and heart attacks in patients with high Calcium Scores can be reduced by modification of risk factors such as diet and exercise and medical treatment of blood cholesterol levels. Your Calcium Score in conjunction with other risk factors such as blood cholesterol, smoking and lifestyle, can be used by your doctor to assess your risk of coronary artery disease. Your doctor can then determine the level of lifestyle changes you need to make to reduce the risk of disease.

WHAT DOES MY SCORE MEAN?

The calcium score obtained from the Heartcheck scan reflects the amount of calcium detected in the coronary arteries. You may or may not notice any symptoms due to this calcification, but people with very high scores are more likely to also have a critical narrowing in one or more of the arteries. For this reason it is important to determine if you may be experiencing symptoms related to your heart, such a chest pain or unexpected shortness of breath with activity.

When you receive your Heartcheck results, the report will include interpretation of your score. The following guidelines will help you understand your test results.

If your score is 0:

Your probability of having significant coronary artery disease is minimal. If you are a man under the age of 55 or a woman under the age of 60 you may wish to repeat this test in five years. You should also take this opportunity to share the results with your doctor and discuss any preventative modifications in your lifestyle.

If your score is positive but less than 100:

There is plaque detected in the arteries of your heart. It is recommended that you have a complete assessment of your cardiac risk factors, and initiate appropriate preventative measures. You should see your doctor for advice.

If your score is between 101and 400:

There is a considerable amount of plaque in the arteries of your heart. While this is not a medical emergency there is an increased risk of having a heart attack in the future. Make an appointment to see your doctor for a full assessment of your cardiac risk factors. Your doctor can determine which type of test would be best for you.

If your score is greater than 400:

You have extensive plaque on the coronary arteries and may have significant narrowing. You are at increased risk of heart attack. Make an appointment to see your doctor as soon as possible.