Cardiovascular risk screening refers to the process of assessing an individual's likelihood of developing cardiovascular diseases. The main aim of screening is to identify risk factors early and adopt preventive measures to reduce morbidity and mortality.[1][2] Early identification of risk factors can lead to timely interventions, such as lifestyle changes, medications, or surgical treatment. This approach helps in reducing the incidence of major cardiovascular events like heart attack and stroke.[3]
Common risk factors
Key risk factors that are evaluated during cardiovascular risk screening include:[4]
Age (Men over 45 and women over 55 are at higher risk)
Gender (Men are generally at higher risk, though postmenopausal women are also vulnerable)
Screening methods
Cardiovascular risk screening typically involves a combination of clinical assessments, laboratory tests, and lifestyle evaluations. Commonly used methods include: [5]
Blood Pressure Measurement
Lipid Profile Test
Blood Glucose Test
Body Mass Index (BMI)
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Risk Assessment Tools such as the Framingham Risk Score and QRISK help to evaluate the cardiovascular risk.