When it comes to assessing heart disease and stroke risk, early detection is key. While many traditional tests focus on blood pressure, cholesterol, and lifestyle factors, new technologies are emerging to identify more subtle cardiovascular risks. One such tool is the lateral DXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan, which is being used to detect abdominal aortic calcification (AAC)—a condition that can indicate a higher risk of heart disease and stroke.
The abdominal aorta is the largest artery in the abdomen, and when calcium deposits build up in its walls, it hardens, a condition known as arteriosclerosis. This calcification, known as abdominal aortic calcification (AAC), is a marker of aging and vascular damage. Over time, this hardening restricts blood flow, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions. AAC is particularly common in older individuals and is associated with risk factors like high blood pressure and diabetes.
By focusing on the abdominal region, where the aorta is located, lateral DXA scans can identify even small amounts of calcification. Early detection of abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) provides a critical opportunity for preventive care, allowing healthcare providers to identify individuals at higher risk of heart disease and stroke before more severe symptoms develop.
In addition to detecting AAC, lateral DXA scans offer several advantages for assessing cardiovascular risk:
Screening for abdominal aortic calcification is particularly important for individuals at higher risk for cardiovascular disease, especially those over the age of 50, and those with conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol. The buildup of calcium in the abdominal aorta can signal the early stages of arterial hardening, and early detection through DEXA scans allows for preventive measures to reduce the risk of life-threatening events like heart attacks and strokes.
By detecting AAC, healthcare providers can recommend additional tests or lifestyle changes to improve vascular health. Furthermore, the presence of AAC often indicates that other forms of vascular calcification, such as in the coronary arteries, may also be present. In such cases, additional screenings like blood tests, echocardiograms, or even CT scans may be recommended for a more thorough evaluation.
Lateral DXA scans are a powerful tool in assessing heart and stroke risk by detecting abdominal aortic calcification (AAC). Contact Dexacan in Kelowna today if you’d like to learn more or wish to schedule a DEXA scan to proactively support your cardiovascular and overall health.
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