BENGALURU, Aug 5: Renowned cardiac surgeon Dr Devi Shetty recommends routine heart screenings with a cardiac CT scan or CT angiogram to detect early, silent blockages before symptoms appear.

Recommended Screening Timeline

Age 17: Get a basic blood test (lipid profile) to check cholesterol levels early, per guidelines from the Cardiology Society of India.

Ages 35–40: All men should undergo a routine health checkup that includes a cardiac CT scan.

Age 30: Anyone with a family history of heart disease should start screening immediately rather than waiting. Before

Age 30: Individuals with long-standing diabetes should get evaluated early.

Why a Cardiac CT Scan Matters

Detects Silent Plaque: Traditional tests like ECGs or stress tests often miss early or intermediate coronary artery disease. A CT scan can spot blockages as small as 5%.

Prevents Emergencies: Identifying minor blockages early allows for timely lifestyle changes and medications that can prevent major heart attacks.

Long-Lasting Clarity: A normal CT scan result typically indicates a very low risk of a cardiac event for the next 7 to 10 years