Because Good Medicine Deserves Better Explanations
I initially set out to write a straightforward blog post explaining what it means when a doctor says you have a 50% coronary artery blockage. It’s a topic that often confuses patients and clinicians, and I thought a clear explanation would be helpful. But as I began drafting, I realized that listing percentages and medical … Read more
Coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring has quietly become one of the most valuable tools we have in preventive cardiology. It’s quick, non-invasive, relatively inexpensive, and remarkably informative. For those unfamiliar with the test itself, I’ve written an overview explaining what CAC scoring is and how it works— you can read it here. When someone’s CAC … Read more
For years, physicians have debated the best approach to evaluating stable chest pain. An ideal diagnostic test should enhance accuracy while minimizing risks to patients, simultaneously improving prognosis and reducing overall health risks. Now, the SCOT-HEART trial provides definitive long-term evidence that Coronary CT Angiography (CCTA) not only improves diagnosis but also significantly reduces heart … Read more
Measurements of coronary artery calcium score (CAC scoring) are commonly used to assess future heart disease risk. When we age, calcium deposits can be found in many parts of our bodies. Calcification in the arterial walls is common in people aged 65 and older. So, to some degree, calcification of arteries can be regarded as … Read more