coronary artery calcium scan

3 min read 11-03-2025

Meta Description: Worried about heart disease? A coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan is a quick, painless test that can reveal hidden plaque buildup in your arteries. Learn about the procedure, its benefits, risks, and who should get screened. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about CAC scans and their role in preventing heart attacks and strokes. Discover if a CAC scan is right for you and how to discuss it with your doctor.

What is a Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) Scan?

A coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan, also known as a coronary calcium score test, is a non-invasive imaging technique that measures the amount of calcium buildup in your coronary arteries. Calcium deposits, or plaque, are a hallmark of atherosclerosis, the process that leads to heart disease. This buildup narrows the arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart. A CAC scan provides a quantitative measure of this plaque, helping assess your risk of future heart problems.

How Does a CAC Scan Work?

The scan uses a specialized type of CT scan (computed tomography) to create detailed images of your heart and its arteries. Unlike traditional CT scans, this one uses a very low dose of radiation. The test is quick, usually taking less than 10 minutes. You lie on a table that slides into the scanner. The scanner rotates around you, taking numerous X-ray images. A computer then processes these images to create a 3D picture of your coronary arteries. The amount of calcium detected is given a numerical score.

Preparing for a CAC Scan:

You'll likely need to fast for several hours before the scan (typically 4-6 hours).
Inform your doctor about any medications you take, especially those containing iodine.
You should avoid strenuous exercise before the scan.

Understanding Your CAC Score

Your CAC score is a number representing the amount of calcium detected in your arteries. A score of zero indicates no detectable calcium. Higher scores indicate more calcium buildup and a greater risk of heart disease.

Score of 0: Low risk.
Score of 1-10: Intermediate risk.
Score of 100-400: High risk.
Scores above 400: Very high risk.

It is crucial to understand that your CAC score is just one piece of information your doctor will use to assess your overall cardiovascular risk. It needs to be considered alongside other risk factors, such as age, family history, cholesterol levels, blood pressure, smoking status, and diabetes.

Who Should Get a CAC Scan?

The American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology don't currently recommend routine CAC scans for everyone. However, a CAC scan may be beneficial for:

Individuals with intermediate risk factors: Those who fall between low and high risk for heart disease based on traditional risk factors.
Individuals with family history of premature heart disease: If close family members have experienced heart attacks at a young age.
Asymptomatic individuals with risk factors: People without heart symptoms but with multiple risk factors.

Benefits of a CAC Scan

Early detection of atherosclerosis: A CAC scan can detect plaque buildup even before symptoms appear.
Risk stratification: Helps determine your precise risk of future heart events.
Improved risk prediction: Provides a more accurate assessment of cardiovascular risk compared to traditional methods alone.
Personalized prevention strategies: Allows for the tailoring of preventative measures based on your individual risk level.

Risks of a CAC Scan

The CAC scan is a safe procedure. However, there are some potential risks to consider:

Radiation exposure: While the radiation dose is low, some exposure still occurs. The benefits usually outweigh the risks, particularly in individuals at intermediate or higher risk.
Allergic reactions to contrast dye: In rare cases, individuals may have an allergic reaction to the contrast dye (which is usually not needed in CAC scans).
Kidney problems: Although rare, individuals with severe kidney problems may be at higher risk.

CAC Scan vs. Other Heart Tests

A CAC scan differs from other heart tests, such as stress tests or coronary angiograms. While stress tests assess how well your heart functions under stress, and angiograms visualize blockages directly, a CAC scan specifically measures calcium buildup as an indicator of plaque. Your doctor will determine which test is most appropriate for you based on your individual needs and risk factors.

Cost and Insurance Coverage

The cost of a CAC scan can vary depending on your location and insurance coverage. Most insurance plans cover the scan if your doctor deems it medically necessary. It is important to check with your insurance provider beforehand.

Conclusion: Your Heart Health Journey

A coronary artery calcium scan offers a valuable tool for assessing your heart disease risk. While it shouldn't replace a healthy lifestyle and regular checkups with your physician, a CAC scan can provide important insights. It can help you and your doctor make informed decisions about preventative measures to safeguard your heart health. Remember to discuss whether a CAC scan is right for you with your doctor, weighing the potential benefits against the risks. Early detection and proactive management are key to preventing heart disease.