1. What is ASCVD Risk?

The ASCVD (Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease) Risk Calculator estimates 10-year risk of heart disease or stroke using the Pooled Cohort Equations. It helps guide preventive treatment decisions.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Pooled Cohort Equations:

Where:

• Age — Between 40-79 years
• Sex — Male or Female
• Race — White or Black
• Cholesterol — Total and HDL cholesterol (mg/dL)
• Blood Pressure — Systolic BP (mmHg)
• Diabetes — Presence of diabetes
• Smoking — Current smoking status

3. Importance of ASCVD Risk Calculation

Details: The 10-year ASCVD risk score helps clinicians and patients make informed decisions about preventive therapies like statins and aspirin.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all required values accurately. The calculator is valid for adults aged 40-79 without existing ASCVD.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is considered high risk?
A: ≥7.5% 10-year risk is generally considered high risk for preventive treatment consideration.

Q2: How often should risk be calculated?
A: Every 4-6 years in adults 40-75, or more frequently if risk factors change.

Q3: What are the limitations?
A: The equations may overestimate risk in modern populations and don't account for all risk factors like family history.

Q4: Should this be used for everyone?
A: No, only for adults 40-79 without existing ASCVD. Other tools exist for younger patients.

Q5: How accurate is the calculator?
A: It provides reasonable estimates for populations but may be less accurate for individuals.