While many heart tests rely on external markers - like the pressure of your blood against your artery walls or the level of lipids circulating in your system - a CT Calcium Score is different. It is a direct "visual audit" of your heart’s arteries.
Here is the step-by-step breakdown of how the technology works and what happens during the process.
The Science: Detecting "Silent" Plaque
The test uses Computed Tomography (CT) technology to take multiple X-ray images of your heart from different angles. A computer then joins these images together to create a detailed 3D cross-section.
The scan specifically looks for calcified plaque. When cholesterol and fat build up in your artery walls (atherosclerosis), the body often deposits calcium into that plaque to stabilise it, making it "hard."
Because calcium is dense, it blocks X-rays more effectively than soft tissue, appearing as bright white spots on the scan. The "score" is calculated based on the density and total area of these calcium deposits.
The Experience: Quick and Non-Invasive
One of the primary benefits of the Heart Risk Snapshot is how little it demands of you. Unlike more intensive cardiac tests, it is "non-invasive," meaning nothing enters your body.
No Injections: There are no contrast dyes or needles required.
No Special Prep: You don't need to fast or change your routine before arriving at the imaging partner.
Speed: The actual scanning process takes only 10 to 15 minutes. You simply lie on a table that slides into the CT scanner, hold your breath for a few seconds to ensure the images aren't blurred by your heartbeat, and you're done.
Understanding the Results
Once the scan is complete, the images are analysed to produce an Agatston Score. This is a universal scale used to rank cardiovascular risk:
| Score | Meaning | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | No plaque detected | Very low risk |
| 1 – 100 | Mild plaque build-up | Low to Moderate risk |
| 101 – 400 | Moderate plaque build-up | Increased risk of heart disease |
| 400+ | Extensive plaque build-up | High risk; further testing often required |
How Everlab Processes Your Results
At Everlab, we believe a number without a plan is just a data point. Once your scan is complete at our imaging partner, the process moves into the Interpretation and Action phases:
Integration: We upload the results to your Everlab record, viewing them alongside your blood markers (like ApoB and LDL) and your genetics.
Contextualisation: A score of 100 means something very different for a 40-year-old than it does for a 70-year-old. We explain what your score means for your specific age and health profile.
Prevention Strategy: If your score is elevated, we work with you to adjust your prevention strategy - whether that’s intensifying exercise, dietary changes, or discussing preventative medication with your clinician.
Ready to see what's happening inside?
The Heart Risk Snapshot is available to Everlab members for $499 (inc. GST) or non-members for $699 (inc. GST).
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