Heart disease and stroke are leading causes of illness and death. The American Heart Association (AHA) has developed a tool called the ASCVD Risk Calculator to help estimate a person’s chance of having a heart attack or stroke in the next 10 years. ASCVD stands for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, which includes myocardial infarction (heart attack), stroke, and death related to heart and blood vessel disease. This tool is used for adults who have not already had a heart attack or stroke and helps guide early prevention efforts.
The ASCVD Risk Calculator uses common health information, including age, sex, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, diabetes, and smoking status. Blood work is needed to calculate this risk. These factors are combined to give a percentage that shows estimated risk over the next 10 years. For example, a higher percentage means a higher chance of developing heart disease or stroke. Health care providers use this information to identify people who may benefit from lifestyle changes or medications to lower their risk. mdcalc.com
Knowing your heart disease risk can help you take steps to protect your health. Many risk factors are modifiable, meaning they can be improved. Eating a heart‑healthy diet, staying physically active, not smoking, and controlling blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar can greatly reduce risk. If you have any questions about your Heart Disease Risk, please make an appointment with your family doctor to discuss.