Heart tests for men over 50 highlighted by cardiologists.

The article reports that cardiologists recommend five screenings for men over 50 — blood pressure, a lipid panel with ApoB, hemoglobin A1c, a coronary artery calcium (CAC) score, and lipoprotein(a) — and notes that many cardiovascular events involve at least one preventable risk factor.

Cardiologists are emphasizing a set of heart health screenings for men over 50. The article reports five tests that can help identify cardiovascular risk before symptoms appear. It notes that about 80 percent of heart attacks could be prevented and that many people who have cardiovascular events have at least one preventable risk factor. Martin S. Dawson, M.D., a cardiologist quoted in the article, outlines the specific tests. Key points: - The article lists five screenings: blood pressure, lipid panel plus ApoB, hemoglobin A1c, coronary artery calcium (CAC) score, and lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)). - It reports that high blood pressure is considered consistent systolic readings of 130 mm Hg or higher, or diastolic readings of 80 mm Hg or higher, and that hypertension is often symptomless. - The lipid panel and ApoB assess cholesterol and particles linked to plaque formation, while A1c is presented as a marker of blood sugar and metabolic health. - CAC is described as a CT-based measure of calcium in coronary arteries, and Lp(a) is noted as a genetically determined LDL variant not captured by standard cholesterol panels. Summary: The article frames these tests as tools to identify risk earlier in men over 50 and highlights that many cardiovascular events involve preventable factors. Undetermined at this time.