Coronary Calcium Score Test Explained (And What It Can Miss)

Cholesterol can look “normal” and you can still have plaque. In this episode, we break down proactive heart disease screening before a heart attack or stroke—starting with the coronary calcium score test and when to consider coronary CT angiography (CTA). We explain why prevention shouldn’t rely on a basic lipid panel alone, and how risk factors like family history, diabetes, and borderline labs may justify earlier imaging. You’ll learn what a coronary calcium score does (and doesn’t) show, and how advanced CTA plaque analysis helps visualize plaque, measure type and volume, and assess true cardiovascular risk—not just estimate it. If you’re wondering whether you should be screened due to genetics or early heart disease in your family, this conversation helps you understand the right questions to ask a qualified provider. Share this with someone who needs it. For more information on heart disease prevention and screening options, reach out through our website. Timestamps 00:00 – Why reactive healthcare fails  00:27 – Preventing heart attacks before they happen  00:44 – Why waiting for chest pain is too late  02:16 – Risk factors vs. actual plaque  03:18 – Coronary calcium score explained  03:41 – What is coronary CTA plaque analysis?  05:06 – Measuring plaque type and volume  06:50 – Who should screen earlier  09:59 – Who benefits most from proactive prevention  12:43 – Calcium score: screening vs. monitoring  16:52 – Women & soft plaque limitations  20:18 – Treat heart disease a decade early Learn More: https://www.alluremedical.com/ Books & Research: https://www.alluremedical.com/books/ Follow Dr. Charles Mok & Allure Medical: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-mok-4a0432114/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alluremedicals/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AllureMedical TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@alluremedical Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Dr.-Charles-Mok/author/B0791M9FZQ Inner Circle Membership: https://www.alluremedic #insidethecure