CT Cardiac Calcium Score Explained—and Why It Matters
Caring for our hearts is one of the most important things we can do for ourselves. A healthy heart supports how we live, feel, and move each day.
Everyone has a heart—but how often do we check in on it?
Heart disease is a major health concern affecting millions worldwide. However, early detection is possible. With the power of a CT Cardiac Calcium Score, we can provide you with a clearer picture of your heart health.
What is a CT Cardiac Calcium Score?
A CT (Computed Tomography or Cat Scan) Cardiac Calcium Score is an imaging exam that takes pictures of your heart to check for calcium buildup in the heart’s blood vessels, also known as plaque. A buildup of plaque can cause an artery to become narrowed or blocked, leading to serious health conditions. At its core, a CT Cardiac Calcium Score is a powerful screening tool for you and your physician that helps determine your risk of future heart disease and guide treatment management if needed.
Why Get a CT Cardiac Calcium Score?
- It’s quick (under 5 minutes!)
- It detects heart disease before symptoms start.
- It gives you and your doctor clear data to guide your care.
What Happens During the Test?
- Check-in: You’ll arrive at Weill Cornell Imaging and change into a gown.
- Electrode Placement: Small sticky patches (ECG leads) will be placed on your chest to check your heart’s rhythm during the test.
- CT scan: You’ll lie down on the scanner and follow simple breathing instructions.
- Completion: Once the scan is done, you’ll be on your way! You will receive your report in 1 to 2 business days.
Understanding Your Report
Your report will provide two key insights:
- Agatston Calcium Score: This quantifies the amount of plaque in your arteries. The higher the score, the more plaque that is present in your heart.
- MESA Percentile: This compares your score to others of the same age, sex, and ethnicity—allowing you and your doctor to better understand your risk level.
What Happens Next?
Together, you and your doctor will decide if any changes are needed in your treatment plan. Ultimately, it's about making informed decisions for your long-term health.
Why Does It Matters?
Heart disease remains a leading health concern in the U.S, but the good news is that it is preventable—especially when detected early. Imaging tools like CT Cardiac Calcium Score make detection possible. You only have one heart, so check in on it today.
Contributor: Cardiothoracic Radiologist - Alexander Phan, MD