Introduction

Preventive cardiology is undergoing a revolution, with advanced biomarkers and imaging techniques offering unparalleled insights into cardiovascular risk. Traditional risk factors like cholesterol and blood pressure remain important. Still, cutting-edge tools such as Apolipoprotein B (ApoB), Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)], high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), myeloperoxidase (MPO), Lipoprotein Associated Phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2), Carotid Intima-Media Thickness (CIMT), Coronary Calcium Score (CAC), and Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography (CCTA) with Cleerly enable more precise risk assessment and targeted preventive strategies.

Lab Tests

• Apolipoprotein B (ApoB)
Apolipoprotein B is a protein component of atherogenic lipoproteins like LDL, VLDL, and IDL. Research has shown that measuring ApoB offers superior predictive value for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) compared to traditional LDL cholesterol measurements. Elevated ApoB levels indicate a higher number of atherogenic particles, thus reflecting a more accurate cardiovascular risk profile.

• Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)]
Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is a low-density lipoprotein with an attached apolipoprotein(a) molecule. It’s primarily determined by genetics and independently predicts cardiovascular risk. Elevated Lp(a) levels are associated with premature atherosclerosis, aortic stenosis, and coronary artery disease (CAD).

• High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP)
High-sensitivity C-reactive protein is a systemic inflammatory marker that reflects underlying inflammation and its role in atherosclerosis. Elevated hs-CRP identifies individuals at higher risk for cardiovascular events and guides anti-inflammatory therapy considerations.

• Myeloperoxidase (MPO)
Myeloperoxidase is a white blood cell-derived inflammatory enzyme that measures disease activity from the luminal aspect of the arterial wall. When the artery wall is damaged or inflamed, MPO is released. MPO mediates the vascular inflammation that starts plaque formation. Elevated MPO levels indicate vascular inflammation and help identify patients at high risk for cardiovascular events.

• Lipoprotein-Associated Phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2)
Lp-PLA2 is an enzyme that breaks down oxidized LDL in the vessel walls. Elevated Lp-PLA2 levels have been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular events.

Imaging Tests

• Carotid Intima-Media Thickness (CIMT)
Carotid Intima-Media Thickness measures the thickness of the inner layers of the carotid artery via ultrasound. Increased CIMT reflects subclinical atherosclerosis and correlates with an increased risk of future cardiovascular events.

• Coronary Calcium Score (CAC)
Coronary Calcium Scoring uses computed tomography to measure the amount of calcified plaque in the coronary arteries. CAC scoring provides direct evidence of atherosclerosis and helps refine risk stratification beyond traditional factors.

• Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography (CCTA) with Cleerly

Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography provides detailed visualization of the coronary arteries, enabling precise assessment of plaque burden and morphology. Cleerly, an AI-powered software, analyzes CCTA images to quantify and characterize plaque type, offering personalized risk assessment.

Conclusion

The integration of advanced testing in preventive cardiology offers a robust risk assessment framework, enabling early identification of high-risk individuals and precise intervention. By leveraging the power of these biomarkers and imaging techniques, we can tailor preventive strategies, potentially leading to a significant reduction in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.

Schedule your free health consultation to see which tests are best for you.