A noninvasive computed tomography (CT) scan of your heart to measure the amount of calcified plaque in your coronary arteries is available at the health system in Great Bend. The scan takes only a few minutes and can help determine your risk of heart disease.

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The coronary arteries are blood vessels that supply your heart with oxygen-rich blood. Strong and continuous blood flow to the heart is essential. If blood flow to the heart is restricted or interrupted, a heart attack can occur. Coronary artery disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States.

• Someone in the US has a heart attack every 40 seconds.

• 25% of deaths each year are from heart disease.

• 80% of cardiovascular disease is preventable.

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A plaque deposit is a waxy substance that can accumulate over many years. Over time, the plaque may limit or block blood flow to the heart. It can also rupture, resulting in a blood clot, which may cause additional narrowing or a heart attack.

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Heart disease is a largely preventable condition. When plaque is identified early, we can take measures to minimize its progression and strengthen the heart.

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Understanding your risk

Your healthcare provider may recommend a CT coronary calcium score to better understand your risk of heart disease or determine a treatment plan. If you are age 40 or older and have any of the following risk factors, you may be eligible.

• Family history of heart disease

• High cholesterol

• High blood pressure

• Currently smoking or history of smoking

• Diabetes

• Obese

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CT coronary calcium scoring may not be helpful to you if:

• You are younger than 40 and have no risk factors.

• You have already been diagnosed with heart disease.
   

Your healthcare provider can use the CT calcium scoring results to determine if you need further testing, medication or lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of a heart attack or other heart problems.

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What to expect at your screening

Your coronary calcium CT scan will only take a few minutes, but the overall process can take around an hour. We recommend wearing loose clothing that does not contain metal around your chest, including buttons, zippers, jewelry and bras with underwires or metal clasps. Pacemakers are acceptable.

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You will be asked to lie back on a platform that slides into a CT scanner and place your arms above your head. Most patients are relaxed and comfortable. During the scan:

• You will need to stay still.

• You will be asked to hold your breath for short periods of time.

• Electrodes will be placed on your chest to record your heartbeat.
   

Results will be interpreted and sent to your ordering provider. If coronary calcification is found on your scan, recommendations will be made based on your score.

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Talk to your healthcare provider about scheduling a coronary calcium CT scan. The test has a cash cost of $45 as it is not usually covered by insurance.