
Keeping ahead of heart disease: Pacific Radiology
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is New Zealand’s number one killer, with one Kiwi dying every 90 minutes.
In recent years, the number of people affected by cardiovascular disease has been on the rise globally. Early detection plays a critical role in preventing serious outcomes, and
Pacific Radiology in Christchurch offers a valuable tool for this purpose – the CT Calcium Score Test. Pacific Radiology’s Dr Ross Keenan, highly experienced in neuro and cardiac radiology and leading imaging researcher, could not be more enthusiastic about this testing: “It’s a brilliant test because it shows what nothing else can. A totally healthy-seeming person on all the other indicators could have a terrible calcium score.”
SPOT HEART DISEASE EARLY
A CT Calcium Score is a specialised CT scan that uses high-speed, high-resolution imaging to detect calcium build-up in coronary arteries. No intravenous dye or special preparation is required, and the test typically takes less than 15 minutes. The presence of calcium indicates coronary artery disease (CAD), which the test can detect even before symptoms such as heart attacks occur. “The amount of calcium is measured as a score, which helps determine an individual’s risk of CAD. Early detection provides an opportunity to modify risk factors, and the test itself is safe and painless,” explains Dr Keenan.
WHO IS AT RISK?
The increase in heart disease cases is partly due to lifestyle-related factors such as obesity and diabetes. Incredibly, one in 21 New Zealand adults are affected. Risk factors include:
• High total cholesterol or low ‘good’ cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Smoking
• Diabetes
Certain groups face higher risks, including those with a family history of heart disease, Māori, Pacific, or Indian subcontinent communities, and individuals with conditions mentioned above, and with kidney problems. People with cardiovascular symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath during activity, or palpitations should seek a full cardiology assessment, as these symptoms require more than just a calcium score test.
TAKE CONTROL
“If you fall into any of the risk categories or are concerned about your heart health, talk to your doctor about getting a CT Calcium Score Test,” Dr Keenan suggests. “Early detection can make a significant difference. Taking this step could be the start of a healthier heart and a healthier life.”
Schedule your appointment today to to take control of your heart health.