Rethinking Cardiac Risk: Beyond Traditional Heart Risk Score
What sets HeartIQ apart from standard cardiovascular risk models?
- Written by
- Swizton Medtech
- Published
- Reading time
- 3 min
One can assume a common question in our minds, when it comes to our cardiovascular health, is “What is my risk of having a heart attack?”. The answer for the same historically relied on statistical calculators called cardiovascular risk scores.
While traditional scoring systems served as crucial stepping stones for 20th-century medicine, many were developed decades ago using western population data. Today, as advanced biomarkers, ethnic-specific risk research, and non-invasive imaging reshape preventive cardiology, we have a long way to go — and that’s how the HeartIQ Score was developed as a way for preventive cardiology.
Let’s break down the most common cardiac risk scores and how HeartIQ Score can better support you.
PREVENT
A newer cardiovascular risk prediction framework developed by the American Heart Association. This model incorporates cardiovascular, kidney function and metabolic health factors to estimate cardiovascular risk. HbA1c is an optional predictor in the relevant model [2].
Disadvantages: Although PREVENT incorporates a broader range of health measures, blood tests like ApoA1, ApoB, Lipoprotein(a), hs-CRP and family history are not considered in its core equations.
QRISK3 or SCORE2
Updated regional models used extensively in the UK (QRISK3) and Europe (SCORE2) that incorporate additional factors like kidney disease and social deprivation. They account for broader systemic health conditions and ethnicity multipliers.
Disadvantages: Still bound by traditional lipid panels; fail to account for inherited genetic traits like Lipoprotein(a), ApoA1, ApoB, hs-CRP, HbA1c, family history etc.
Reynolds Risk Score
Incorporates conventional risk factors and additional information, including hs-CRP and family history of premature heart attack in some versions [1].
Disadvantages: The model does not directly incorporate inherited genetic traits like Lipoprotein(a), or the extent of family history.
Framingham Risk Score (FRS)
The Framingham Risk Score estimates 10-year cardiovascular risk based on age, sex, total cholesterol, HDL, blood pressure, smoking, and diabetes status. It established the foundation of modern preventive cardiology and is easy to calculate with routine labs [3].
Disadvantages: Heavily weighted by age; ignores advanced markers like ApoA1, ApoB, Lipoprotein(a), hs-CRP etc. and history of heart risks.
ASCVD Risk Estimator (AHA/ACC Pooled Cohort Equations)
A widely used, established risk calculator used by the American Heart Association to guide statin therapy for primary prevention. It is better calibrated for broader demographic groups compared to early Framingham models. The 2026 AHA/ACC dyslipidemia guideline now recommends PREVENT rather than PCE for primary-prevention lipid-lowering decisions.
Disadvantages: Evaluates only a 10-year window rather than lifetime risk; relies on standard LDL weight rather than atherogenic particle counts (ApoB); misses silent vascular inflammation (hs-CRP) and inherited genetic traits like Lipoprotein(a).
What is HeartIQ Score?
Traditional risk calculators were set for a time when doctors had access to basic cholesterol panels and blood pressure values. Today, we have tools to find hidden inflammation, specific risks, and vascular changes long before symptoms appear.
HeartIQ combines personal health information, lifestyle factors, medical history, advanced cardiac biomarkers and clinical assessment to provide personalized risk assessment, risk-based insights, and preventive guidance.
- Health assessment – A questionnaire covering medical history, family history and lifestyle factors.
- Blood tests – Assess relevant biomarkers, including cholesterol, ApoB, ApoA1, Lp(a), hs-CRP and HbA1c. Home sample collection is available through the program’s laboratory arrangements.
- Heart risk assessment – HeartIQ analyses the collected information to classify cardiovascular risk as Low, Intermediate or High.
- Online doctor consultation – Discuss the results and understand the recommended next steps with a doctor.
- Further evaluation, if needed – Additional tests such as CCTA or CAC may be recommended based on risk score and clinical assessment. This enables targeted cardiac evaluation based on risk, rather than routine CT angiography for everyone.
- Preventive care – Follow appropriate medical advice and preventive measures to manage cardiovascular risk.
The HeartIQ Score combines advanced technologies into a unified, actionable assessment. While traditional scores stop at static lab numbers, HeartIQ uses scores to guide imaging and online consultations to create a seamless pathway.
From risk assessment to informed action, HeartIQ helps users understand their risk, access professional guidance and make informed decisions about preventive care.
Discover your cardiovascular risk profile today at www.heartiqscore.com.
References
- Ridker P. M., et al. (2008). C-Reactive Protein and Parental History Improve Global Cardiovascular Risk Prediction: The Reynolds Risk Score for Men. Circulation, 118, 2243–2251. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- American Heart Association. PREVENT Equations: Cardiovascular Risk Assessment. AHA Professional Heart Daily. professional.heart.org
- Framingham Heart Study. Cardiovascular Disease: 10-Year Risk. Framingham Heart Study Research Resources. framinghamheartstudy.org
Know your heart risk before it shows
HeartIQ Score brings together a 3-minute health assessment, home blood tests and a doctor consultation to give you a clear, personalised risk picture.
