Heart Disease Risk Assessment Test
A heart disease risk assessment is a screening tool that calculates your risk of developing heart disease in the future, often within the next 10 years. It uses information about your age, family history, lifestyle, and health conditions to give you a percentage score.
What this test measures
This assessment measures your risk of heart disease or cardiovascular disease (CVD) by evaluating risk factors such as age, family history, diet, exercise, and other health conditions. It estimates the likelihood of developing heart disease over a specific period, typically 10 years.
What your results mean
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.
Higher-than-normal results
A higher percentage means you have a greater risk of developing heart disease. Your provider may recommend steps to lower your risk, such as lifestyle changes or medicines.
Lower-than-normal results
A lower percentage means you have less risk of developing heart disease.
Frequently asked questions
What is a heart disease risk assessment?
It is a screening tool that measures your risk of heart disease or cardiovascular disease (CVD). It includes questions about risk factors like age, family history, and lifestyle.
How are the results given?
Results are given as a percentage based on data from clinical studies. A lower percentage means lower risk, and a higher percentage means greater risk.
Can I change my risk?
Yes, you can lower your risk by eating a healthy diet, getting regular physical activity, limiting alcohol, quitting smoking, and managing stress and health conditions.
What if my risk is high?
Your provider may recommend lifestyle changes and possibly medicines like statins, blood pressure medicines, or blood thinners to lower your risk.
Is this assessment for people who already have heart disease?
No, it is meant to be used before you have a heart problem, even if you feel healthy now.
Related lab tests
Sources
- MedlinePlus: Heart Disease Risk Assessment — NIH MedlinePlus
Last updated . Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.