New Heart Disease Scan Finds Risk Years Before Symptoms Appear
A new medical imaging tool can spot early heart disease risk years before symptoms appear. This breakthrough could change how we prevent cardiovascular problems.
How the New Scan Works
Researchers developed a tool called fast-RSOM. It takes detailed images of your smallest blood vessels right through the skin. Therefore, no invasive procedures are needed. The scan spots tiny changes in how these vessels work. These changes are early warning signs of future heart disease. For example, issues like smoking or high blood pressure can damage these microvessels. Fast-RSOM directly sees this damage. As a result, doctors get a clear, early picture of your heart risk.
Why Early Detection Matters
Traditionally, doctors estimate heart risk based on factors like age or cholesterol. However, this new technology measures actual damage already happening in your body. It finds problems long before you feel any symptoms. In addition, the device is portable and non-invasive. This means it could someday become part of your regular check-up. Early detection allows for earlier lifestyle changes or treatments. Consequently, people could manage their heart health much sooner.
The Future of Heart Health Screening
The research team plans more testing with diverse groups. Their goal is to make fast-RSOM a routine clinical tool. “It could transform how we prevent and manage heart disease,” says Professor Vasilis Ntziachristos, a lead researcher. This technology offers hope for better, earlier interventions. Ultimately, it aims to improve long-term health outcomes for everyone.
