Coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring is a non-invasive, low radiation CT scan that detects and quantifies calcified plaque within the coronary arteries. It provides a calcium score that reflects the burden of underlying atherosclerosis and is a strong predictor of future cardiovascular events, even in people without symptoms.
This test is most useful in individuals at low to intermediate cardiovascular risk, where it helps refine risk and guide decisions about preventive therapies such as cholesterol lowering medication or lifestyle change. The scan is quick, painless, does not require contrast, and supports more personalised cardiovascular risk management.
CAC scoring is most valuable if you have no symptoms but sit in a low to intermediate risk category, particularly with a family history of heart disease or borderline cholesterol. It is generally not the right test if you already have known coronary artery disease or active chest pain, where other tests are more appropriate.
The scan is fast and non-invasive, with no dye and no needles. You lie still on the CT table for a short scan that takes only a few minutes, then return to your normal day immediately.
CAC scoring assists risk stratification in asymptomatic low to intermediate risk patients and can guide statin decisions as a reclassification tool. It is not indicated for acute symptoms or established coronary disease. Results are interpreted with the patient’s full risk profile by a cardiologist.
