New Study Validates AHA's PREVENT Risk Calculator for Heart Attack Prediction

Researchers at New York University's Grossman School of Medicine have validated the American Heart Association's PREVENT risk calculator, finding it can accurately estimate an individual's 10-year risk of heart attack and identify those with potential calcium buildup in heart arteries.

The study, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, analyzed electronic health records of nearly 7,000 adults aged 30-79 who underwent heart disease screening. The PREVENT tool, which considers factors like age, blood pressure, cholesterol, body mass index, diabetes status, and other health indicators, demonstrated significant potential in predicting cardiovascular risks.

Key findings revealed that the PREVENT risk calculator effectively correlated with coronary artery calcium (CAC) scores. Participants with high PREVENT scores consistently matched those with higher CAC scores, indicating a stronger potential for future heart attacks. Specifically, low-to-mild risk PREVENT scores were associated with low calcium levels, while moderate-to-high risk scores corresponded with substantial arterial calcium buildup.

Dr. Morgan Grams, the study's corresponding author, emphasized the clinical significance of these findings. By more accurately identifying individuals at risk of cardiovascular events, healthcare providers can potentially tailor preventive treatments, such as cholesterol-lowering medications, more precisely.

The research also highlighted the value of combining PREVENT scores with CAC screening, which improved risk prediction accuracy. During the study's 1.2-year follow-up period, this combined approach more effectively identified participants who experienced heart attacks.

While promising, researchers acknowledged study limitations, including the predominantly white participant pool and the screening occurring at a single institution. These factors may limit the generalizability of the results to broader, more diverse populations.

The study represents a significant step in cardiovascular risk assessment, offering a more nuanced approach to identifying potential heart disease risks before symptoms develop. By leveraging advanced risk calculation tools and imaging techniques, medical professionals can potentially intervene earlier and more effectively in preventing heart-related complications.