Calcium score, coaching and statins can slow down the plaque structure

For people with a family history of early heart disease, a CAC scan (Coronarary Artery Calcium) plus intensive coaching and a statin can contribute to restricting the advancement of the plaque in their arteries, according to a new study.

CAC recognizes Plaque in the arteries of the heart that are quantified to achieve a score from zero to over 1,000. The study comprised 365 adults between the ages of 40 and 70 with intermediate scalcium scores (more than 0, but less than 400). About half received a Statin Plus coaching and regular follow-ups from a nurse, which included the display of their calcium scans. The others who had similar calcium values, but did not start any statin therapy, only received a standard health education and did not see their calcium scans. After three years, the first group had a lower cholesterol level and less badge in their arteries than in the second group. According to the authors, the results support the use of CAC values ​​in order to support the prevention strategies in people with medium risk to heart disease. The study was published on March 5, 2025 in Jama.

Image with the kind permission of Ronald Blankstein, MD

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