What's Happening?
A study presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2025 by researchers at Intermountain Health in Salt Lake City has found that coronary artery calcium (CAC) scores may predict a person's risk of dying from causes unrelated to heart
disease. The study analyzed medical records of 40,018 patients flagged as at risk for heart disease, who underwent PET/CT stress tests. The researchers discovered that patients with any CAC were 2 to 3 times more likely to die than those with no coronary artery calcium, with only a quarter of these deaths being from cardiovascular disease.
Why It's Important?
The findings suggest that CAC scores could serve as a broader tool for gauging overall health, beyond predicting heart attack risk. This could enable doctors to identify patients at higher risk of dying earlier and intervene sooner, potentially improving outcomes and extending lives. The study highlights the potential for CAC scores to become part of a comprehensive health assessment, offering insights into non-heart-related health issues.
What's Next?
Researchers plan to further investigate the link between CAC scores and all-cause mortality by studying participants who died from non-heart-related causes. This could uncover the mechanisms behind why CAC scores predict death due to non-coronary artery problems. The study suggests that CAC scores have prognostic value beyond heart attacks, and further research could lead to their use in broader health assessments.
Beyond the Headlines
The study raises questions about the role of plaque buildup in the body and its impact on overall health. It suggests that atherosclerosis may interfere with immune surveillance, affecting the body's ability to defend against cancer and other illnesses. Understanding the broader implications of CAC scores could lead to new approaches in preventive healthcare.
