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New York, Mar 30 – A significant study conducted in the United States is investigating a novel method for identifying individuals at risk of coronary heart disease and determining the most effective use of cholesterol-lowering statin medications. Researchers at Intermountain Health in Salt Lake City are pioneering a strategy that utilizes the coronary artery calcium (CAC) score, a direct measure of plaque buildup, to refine statin prescription guidelines.
The study, which has enrolled over 5,600 participants, employs a low-radiation computed tomography (CT) scan to obtain the CAC score, detecting calcium deposits in arterial plaques. This method aims to provide a more accurate assessment of heart disease risk compared to traditional risk equations.
“Our study has now fully enrolled more than 5,600 participants. In this abstract for the American College of Cardiology, we analyzed baseline characteristics and variations in statin prescribing recommendations,” stated Dr. Jeffrey L. Anderson, the study’s principal investigator and a leading clinical and cardiovascular research physician at Intermountain Health.
Dr. Anderson emphasized the study’s primary objective: “The key question is whether we can improve the selection process for statin therapy in primary coronary risk reduction by utilizing CAC scoring rather than relying solely on traditional risk equations. The goal is to determine whether direct imaging of plaque burden provides a more accurate assessment of risk compared to probability-based calculations.”
The findings were presented at the American College of Cardiology’s Annual Scientific Sessions in Chicago on Saturday. As part of the study, risk assessment scores were shared with participants’ physicians, along with statin prescription recommendations for those deemed high-risk.
Preliminary results indicate that while both study groups showed similar baseline characteristics, the frequency of statin recommendations differed, suggesting that the risk assessment methods led to varying classifications. This disparity highlights the potential for CAC scoring to offer a more precise risk evaluation.
The study is projected to conclude in early 2026. Researchers will then analyze health outcomes, including mortality rates, heart attacks, strokes, and revascularization procedures, over a follow-up period averaging more than four years and extending up to seven years.
This research holds significant implications due to the cost and potential side effects of statin therapy, such as muscle aches and an increased risk of diabetes. The study aims to refine the selection process, ensuring statins are prescribed to those who will benefit most, while minimizing unnecessary treatments and associated risks.
Disclaimer: This news article is based on preliminary research findings. Medical decisions should always be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. The information provided here is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The results of this study are still under investigation, and final conclusions may differ from the preliminary findings.
