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Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common form of heart disease. Traditionally, risk of developing CAD has been assessed with a standard calculation of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) “bad” cholesterol and measurement of HDL (high-density lipoprotein) “good” cholesterol quantity. However, only 50% of coronary artery disease is associated with high cholesterol or any of six additional classic risk factors: advanced age, male gender, positive family history of premature heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking. Routine cholesterol tests are failing to identify the vast majority of people at risk for heart attacks. In fact, a recently published study showed a surprising number of people with low LDL cholesterol levels still developed heart disease. Looking at good and bad cholesterol calculations simply is not enough.
Fortunately, there is more that can be done than simply measuring HDL and LDL levels. Berkeley HeartLab offers a panel of tests that can detect inherited abnormalities that are beyond the reach of conventional HDL and LDL analysis. These tests help clinicians create a comprehensive and personalized plan for each individual, assessing a variety of risk markers as well as environmental, genetic, and lifestyle factors that may contribute to heart disease progression. With this additional information, health care providers are able to make better decisions regarding treatment options. The goal of Berkeley HeartLab testing is the prevention of heart disease progression and ultimately, improving quality of life.
If you have had two or more of the following, a Berkeley HeartLab test should be considered:
Berkeley HeartLab patients also have access to the 4myheart Program for cardiovascular disease risk reduction at no additional cost or obligation.
Come see us at FamilyWise Healthcare to determine if Berkeley HeartLab testing is right for you.
