As the world’s biggest killer, cardiovascular disease claims around 110,000 lives in the UK alone every year but most people do not know that they are at risk until a heart attack, stroke or aneurysm rupture occurs. Early detection can enable lifestyle changes and preventative action to be taken to lessen the risks and slow or even halt progression of the disease.
What happens at a cardiac screen?
We offer three simple health screens, which can all be carried out at the same appointment, to check for the most common signs of cardiovascular disease – stroke, heart attack and abdominal aorta aneurysm.
Calcium scoring – heart attacks are caused by a narrowing of the arteries due to the build up of calcified deposits which block the arteries. This simple check consists of a short, pain free CT scan to detect the build-up of deposits in the coronary arteries.
Carotid artery screening – similarly one of the main causes of stroke is a narrowing of the carotid artery in the neck, which is the main blood supply to the brain, due to the build up of fatty deposits. This can be detected at an early stage by ultrasound scanning.
Aortic aneurysm screening - as we get older the wall of the aorta in our abdomen becomes weaker, in some people it can then start to expand and form an abdominal aortic aneurysm. Screening consists of an ultrasound scan of the abdomen to detect an aneurysm by measuring the diameter of the aorta on the screen.
Can I have a cardiac screen?
A heart screen is suitable for men over 40 years and women over 45 years. However, you may particularly benefit if you:
- have a family history of heart disease or stroke
- have diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol
- are significantly overweight
- smoke or have ever smoked heavily
- your lifestyle is mainly sedentary, with little or no exercise
- get regular cramping pains in your legs after walking a short distance.
Patients who have had previous cardiac intervention (angioplasty, stent or surgery) or any previous cardiac problems should seek the advice of their GP or a Consultant Cardiologist.
How long will it take?
The whole process takes approximately one hour. Consultant Radiologists, with a special interest in cardiovascular disease, will report on your diagnostic scans. We will contact you within 3-4 days with the result.
I would like a cardiac screen
You may self-refer for this service or your GP may refer you. This screen can be booked individually as a stand alone health check or as part of a general health screen.
For more information or to book, please call 020 8936 1202.
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