Episode 515: New Data on Calcium Scoring CT Scans and #TestNotGuess

This week, Dr. Kahn discusses two large new studies examining the role of routine coronary artery calcium CT scoring around age 61 and its impact on clinical outcomes. Dr. Kahn favors getting a first calcium CT score at age 45 or younger.

One study found that potentially unnecessary statin use was three times higher when a calcium CT score was not available. Patients were also much more likely to follow their recommended treatment when calcium scoring results were available. The second study found that CT results led to a major change in therapy for one in five people. These are encouraging findings that further support the #TestNotGuess approach.

Other topics include:

Low cardiac risk at age 42 and long-term outcomes

Working from home and prolonged sitting

Piping-hot drinks and esophageal cancer

Menopausal hormone therapy and heart risk

The prevalence of omega-3 deficiency

Ahiflower as an omega-3 supplement

Blood pressure and dementia

Gout and heart disease

Thanks to Central Coast Live Foods. Use discount code DrKahn10 on Kraut Krackers and Trail Salad fermented crackers.