CAC scans most useful for borderline-to-intermediate cardiovascular risk, not for extremes

CAC scoring improved risk prediction modestly (C-statistic 0.73→0.75) in a 6,000-adult study, and was most useful for patients with borderline/intermediate (3%–9%) 10-year cardiovascular risk, offering little benefit at low or high risk.

• For low-risk patients, CAC scanning may expose them to unnecessary radiation and costs without clear benefit.
• High-risk patients are generally candidates for statin therapy regardless of their CAC score, limiting the scan's ability to change management.

Automated summary

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