The ACC/AHA ASCVD Risk Calculator is a tool designed by the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association. It estimates the 10-year probability of a first "hard" atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) event, which includes nonfatal myocardial infarction (heart attack), coronary heart disease death, and nonfatal or fatal stroke.
Understanding Your Results
Healthcare providers use these percentages to guide clinical decisions, such as the initiation of statin therapy or blood pressure management. The categories are generally defined as follows:
Low Risk (< 5%): Maintain a healthy lifestyle to keep risk low.
Borderline Risk (5% to 7.4%): Discuss preventive measures with a doctor.
Intermediate Risk (7.5% to 19.9%): Statin therapy may be recommended based on "risk enhancers."
High Risk (≥ 20%): Aggressive preventive treatment is often advised.
Key Factors in the Calculation
The calculator uses the Pooled Cohort Equations, which take into account several critical health markers:
Age: Risk naturally increases as blood vessels age.
Lipid Profile: Total and HDL cholesterol levels help determine plaque buildup potential.
Blood Pressure: High systolic pressure strains the heart and damages arteries.
Diabetes: Significantly increases cardiovascular risk regardless of other factors.
Smoking: One of the most significant modifiable risk factors for stroke and heart disease.
Disclaimer: This tool provides an estimate based on population data. It is not a clinical diagnosis. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medication or health regimen.