Finding hidden heart disease risk using imaging scans

This research study is testing whether advanced imaging scans of your heart and neck arteries can better identify people at very high risk for a heart attack or stroke than standard risk calculations alone. Researchers will compare two approaches: one that uses a simple mathematical risk formula, and another that includes ultrasound and heart imaging scans to look for hidden plaque buildup in your arteries.

Many people feel completely healthy but are actually at very high risk for a heart attack or stroke because plaque is quietly building up in their arteries. Doctors want to know whether using imaging scans to see this hidden buildup earlier would catch more at-risk people than using math formulas alone.