A new study published in the latest issue of the medical journal Lancet shows that a CT Heart Scan is a better predictor of heart attack risk than cholesterol levels or C-Reactive Protein.  Heart Scans provide a direct look at the coronary arteries to see if there is plaque developing that can lead to heart attacks.  Cholesterol and C-Reactive Protein levels are “risk factors” for heart disease but only give a rough indication of whether you might already have plaque.

If a CT Heart Scan shows that you have coronary artery disease, regardless of your cholesterol level or C-Reactive Protein, treatment can be started with lifestyle changes or medication to help lower your risk.  If there is no disease present then, even though your cholesterol level or C-Reactive Protein level may be elevated, your risk is so low that treating your cholesterol level with medication may not be justified.

To learn more about how a CT Heart Scan can help you find out if you are at risk visit our website at www.ThePLC.net.  You can also see the latest on Heart Scans at “Will You Have a Heart Attack?- These Tests Might Tell” at CNN.com.

David A Fein, MD
Medical Director
Princeton Longevity Center