Finding Hidden Heart Problems Before They Start
Progression of Early Subclinical Atherosclerosis (PESA) Study: JACC Focus Seminar 7/8.
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional. Terms
Surprising Findings
Subclinical atherosclerosis is widespread in asymptomatic adults
Most people assume no symptoms means no disease, but this study shows artery damage is common even in those who feel perfectly healthy.
Practical Takeaways
Consider early cardiovascular screening with noninvasive imaging if you're middle-aged and asymptomatic, especially with risk factors like family history or high cholesterol.
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional. Terms
Surprising Findings
Subclinical atherosclerosis is widespread in asymptomatic adults
Most people assume no symptoms means no disease, but this study shows artery damage is common even in those who feel perfectly healthy.
Practical Takeaways
Consider early cardiovascular screening with noninvasive imaging if you're middle-aged and asymptomatic, especially with risk factors like family history or high cholesterol.
Publication
Journal
Journal of the American College of Cardiology
Year
2021
Authors
B. Ibáñez, A. Fernández-Ortiz, L. Fernández-Friera, I. García-Lunar, V. Andrés, V. Fuster
Related Content
Claims (3)
Even if you feel totally fine, hidden early signs of artery hardening can show up in different parts of your body when doctors use special scans—meaning heart problems can start long before you notice anything wrong.
Heart disease starts way earlier than we think — like in childhood — and builds up quietly for years without symptoms, long before doctors can diagnose it.
Getting regular heart scans every few years can help spot early signs of artery disease in healthy middle-aged people — before they feel any symptoms.