What is a heart check-up?

A heart check-up (or heart screening) is used to detect any early heart abnormalities. The doctor will be able to determine if you are at risk of developing heart disease within the next five to 10 years. They will work with you to manage the risk of heart disease by encouraging lifestyle changes (including exercise and dietary adjustments), and in some cases, taking medication.

What risk factors will my doctor look for?

As part of your check-up, the doctor will look for and discuss the following risk factors during your heart health assessment:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• High cholesterol (and other lipid levels)
• Blood sugar levels
• Obesity
• Lifestyle habits, such as smoking and alcohol consumption
• A family history of cardiac disease, including premature coronary artery disease
   

Are there any risks to having a heart screening?

Screening tests may cause harm as they have the potential to present false results. A false negative may put the patient into a group of people who are less likely to have any heart conditions, which provides false reassurance. 

A false positive may put the patient into a group of people who are more likely to have the condition, which can result in anxiety and referral for additional diagnostic tests that may not be necessary.

What heart tests may be made?

If the doctor suspects that you have heart disease, the following may be required:

• Full history and examination
• Body Mass Index (BMI, based on height and weight)
• Blood Pressure
• Electrocardiography (ECG)
• Blood tests, including lipids, diabetes check (HbA1C), kidney function, blood count and inflammatory markers
• Exercise stress test (on a treadmill or stationary bicycle)
• Echocardiography (heart ultrasound scan)
• Stress Echocardiography
• Coronary CT angiography
• Coronary Angiography
   

At what age should I have a heart check-up?

Health screenings, which includes tests for your heart health should regularly happen between ages 40 - 64. This should be earlier if you have a strong family history of heart disease.