The prevalence and distribution of coronary artery calcium in asymptomatic Korean population

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Radiology
• Preventive Medicine

Background:

• Coronary artery calcium score (CACS) is a crucial predictor of coronary heart disease (CHD).
• Conflicting data exists regarding CACS prevalence and distribution across different ethnic groups.
• Understanding ethnic-specific CACS patterns is vital for accurate cardiovascular risk assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence and distribution of CACS in an asymptomatic Korean population.
• To establish sex- and age-specific reference values for CACS in Koreans.
• To identify factors associated with the presence of coronary artery calcification in this demographic.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 5,239 asymptomatic individuals without known coronary artery disease who underwent CACS computed tomography.
• Assessment of CACS prevalence, distribution, and trends across different age groups and genders.
• Multivariate logistic regression to identify predictors of CACS > 0.

Main Results:

• Overall CACS prevalence was 33.1% (40.5% males, 19.3% females).
• CACS was consistently higher in males across all age groups, with an earlier and more gradual increase observed.
• Male gender, older age, higher pulse pressure, elevated HbA1C, and obesity (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m²) were significantly associated with the presence of CACS.
• Median CACS was lower in Koreans compared to Western populations.

Conclusions:

• This study provides valuable CACS reference values for the asymptomatic Korean population.
• Findings indicate similar age and gender associations for CACS as in Western populations, but with a generally lower burden.
• Risk factors like male gender, age, pulse pressure, HbA1C, and obesity are important considerations for coronary artery calcification in Koreans.