MESA Risk Equation:
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The MESA (Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis) calcium score estimates cardiovascular risk based on coronary artery calcium, age, and gender. It provides a more accurate assessment of heart disease risk than traditional risk factors alone.
The calculator uses the MESA risk equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation accounts for the strong correlation between coronary calcium and cardiovascular risk, with adjustments for age and gender differences.
Details: Calcium scoring is crucial for identifying asymptomatic individuals at high risk for cardiovascular events who may benefit from preventive therapies.
Tips: Enter your calcium score from a CT scan, your age in years, and select your gender. All values must be valid (score ≥ 0, age between 1-120).
Q1: What is a normal calcium score?
A: 0 means no plaque, 1-100 mild plaque, 101-400 moderate plaque, and >400 extensive plaque.
Q2: How often should I get a calcium score test?
A: Typically every 5 years for intermediate-risk patients, unless otherwise advised by your doctor.
Q3: Does a zero score mean no risk?
A: While very reassuring, it doesn't completely eliminate risk, especially in smokers or those with strong family history.
Q4: Are there limitations to calcium scoring?
A: It doesn't detect non-calcified plaque and may be less predictive in very young or very old patients.
Q5: Should I take aspirin if my score is high?
A: Discuss with your doctor - treatment decisions should consider all risk factors, not just the calcium score.