The Cardiovascular Test Every Adult Over 35 Should Take

The silent killer, finally visible

Cardiovascular disease kills more Indians than the next three causes combined. And yet most people only discover they have it when they have a heart attack.

The coronary calcium score (CAC) changes that. A 5-minute, low-radiation CT scan that tells you exactly how much calcified plaque is sitting in your coronary arteries — right now.

What the numbers mean

• 0: Lowest risk. Repeat every 5 years.
• 1–100: Mild plaque. Aggressive lifestyle work.
• 100–400: Moderate plaque. Likely statin candidate.
• 400+: High burden. Cardiologist referral immediately.