A retrospective single-centre study on determinants of high-risk coronary artery calcium (CAC) score in women

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Radiology
• Preventive Medicine

Background:

• Coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring is crucial for assessing coronary atherosclerosis via cardiac CT.
• Understanding determinants of high-risk calcification in women is vital for improving cardiovascular outcomes.
• This study focuses on identifying risk factors and protective elements for high CAC scores in a female cohort.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the determinants of high-risk coronary calcification (CAC score ≥400) in women.
• To identify clinical factors and lifestyle elements associated with elevated CAC scores.
• To inform risk stratification and management strategies for cardiovascular disease in women.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 1,129 female patients from a single center.
• Coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring performed using cardiac computed tomography (CT).
• Statistical analysis to determine independent predictors of high-risk CAC scores (≥400).

Main Results:

• 11.2% of female patients (127/1129) were classified as high risk (CAC ≥400).
• History of hypertension and diabetes were identified as independent determinants of high-risk CAC scores.
• Physical activity and diastolic blood pressure demonstrated a protective association with high CAC scores.

Conclusions:

• Hypertension and diabetes are significant risk factors for high-risk CAC in women.
• Physical activity and controlled diastolic blood pressure may offer cardioprotective benefits.
• Physicians should consider CAC assessment in women with hypertension, diabetes, and uncontrolled systolic blood pressure, even without typical cardiac symptoms.