
Episode 515: New Data on Calcium Scoring CT Scans and #TestNotGuess
Heart Doc VIP with Dr. Joel KahnShow Notes
This week, Dr. Kahn discusses two large new studies examining the role of routine coronary artery calcium CT scoring around age 61 and its impact on clinical outcomes. Dr. Kahn favors getting a first calcium CT score at age 45 or younger.
One study found that potentially unnecessary statin use was three times higher when a calcium CT score was not available. Patients were also much more likely to follow their recommended treatment when calcium scoring results were available. The second study found that CT results led to a major change in therapy for one in five people. These are encouraging findings that further support the #TestNotGuess approach.
Other topics include:
Low cardiac risk at age 42 and long-term outcomes Working from home and prolonged sitting Piping-hot drinks and esophageal cancer Menopausal hormone therapy and heart risk The prevalence of omega-3 deficiency Ahiflower as an omega-3 supplement Blood pressure and dementia Gout and heart disease
Thanks to Central Coast Live Foods. Use discount code DrKahn10 on Kraut Krackers and Trail Salad fermented crackers.
More from Heart Doc VIP with Dr. Joel Kahn
Exercise is one of the most powerful tools we have to protect our heart health at every stage of life. This week, Dr. Kahn explores a new statement from the American College of Cardiology emphasizing the importance of physical activity throughout our lives. Sadly, fewer than 20% of teens meet the criteria for optimal cardiovascular health, highlighting a major opportunity to make movement and exercise a bigger part of everyday life in our schools and workplaces. The benefits go far beyond the heart—from head to toe!
This week, Dr. Kahn presents the case of a patient seen this month at the Kahn Center for Cardiac Longevity who, over the course of five years, has reversed artery aging and plaque and is enjoying excellent health. He discusses the program used to achieve these benefits. This case, along with many others from the Kahn Center, offers hope for maintaining youthful arteries throughout your life.
This week, Dr. Kahn presents a new scientific statement by the American College of Cardiology on nutrition to prevent heart disease. The emphasis is on plant-based choices while limiting red meat, processed foods, and excess added sugar. Sometimes, hearing the same recommendation over and over can help.
This week, as a bonus, Dr. Kahn interviews a Detroit clothing legend, Phil, who celebrated his 100th birthday recently by buying a new sports car! He is approaching his 78th wedding anniversary with his beautiful wife. He discussed his early days in business and early successes, and his health journey, relying a lot on the education he got by repeatedly visiting the Pritikin Longevity Center.
This week, Dr. Kahn brings back the topic of Mankai Duckweed, the smallest edible plant, which provides a complete protein profile, >200 polyphenols, B12, choline, folate, Omega-3s, and other nutrients. Mankai was previously available as a frozen cube but has returned to the market as a user-friendly powder. Mankai is available here: partners.eatmankai.com/AA-DRKAHN