Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, and many people over the age of 50 have underlying cardiac risks they don’t even know about. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and a sedentary lifestyle all contribute to silent cardiovascular damage — often long before symptoms develop. Fortunately, advances in medical imaging now make it easier to detect these risks early and take preventive action.

At Great Lakes Medical Imaging (GLMI), we provide a range of advanced imaging tests that help physicians throughout Buffalo and Western New York identify heart-related issues before they become life-threatening. With tools like low-dose CT, vascular ultrasound, and other non-invasive techniques, patients can better understand their cardiovascular health and take proactive steps toward protecting it.

Why Heart Risks Often Go Undetected

One of the most dangerous things about heart disease is how quietly it can develop. Many people don’t experience symptoms until a major event — such as a heart attack or stroke — occurs. Risk factors like plaque buildup, vascular narrowing, and valve dysfunction may develop gradually over time, especially in people over 50.

Even with a healthy lifestyle, age-related changes in the cardiovascular system can increase your risk. That’s why imaging is a critical part of heart health screening, especially for individuals with one or more of the following risk factors:

• Family history of heart disease or stroke
• High cholesterol or hypertension
• Diabetes or prediabetes
• Obesity or sedentary lifestyle
• Smoking (past or current)

Top Imaging Tests to Detect Hidden Heart Risks

Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) Scoring – CT Scan

A CAC scan is a non-invasive, low-radiation CT scan that measures calcium deposits in the coronary arteries. Calcium buildup is a marker of atherosclerosis, which can lead to blockages and increase the risk of heart attack. A higher score indicates more plaque and greater risk.

This test is particularly valuable for adults aged 45–75 who are at intermediate risk but don’t yet have symptoms. It helps physicians determine whether medication or lifestyle changes are necessary — before symptoms ever appear.

Carotid Artery Ultrasound

This ultrasound test uses sound waves to visualize the carotid arteries in the neck, which supply blood to the brain. It can detect plaque buildup or narrowing (stenosis) that increases stroke risk. It’s especially useful for patients with a family history of stroke or other vascular conditions.

It’s painless, fast, and doesn’t involve radiation — making it an ideal option for routine vascular screening.

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Screening

Men over 65 who have ever smoked are at increased risk for an abdominal aortic aneurysm — a potentially life-threatening bulge in the main artery of the abdomen. A simple ultrasound scan can detect this condition early, before it ruptures.

At GLMI, we perform AAA screening exams using ultrasound imaging to ensure safe, fast, and reliable detection.

Nuclear Stress Test (via Myocardial Perfusion Imaging)

For patients with symptoms or known risk factors, a nuclear stress test may be recommended to evaluate how well the heart muscle receives blood both at rest and during activity. This imaging can reveal blockages, areas of reduced function, or past silent heart attacks.

What These Imaging Tests Can Reveal

These cardiac and vascular imaging tools provide insights into:

• Coronary artery plaque and blockage
• Arterial narrowing or atherosclerosis
• Heart wall motion and function
• Valve health and pumping efficiency
• Aneurysm formation or vessel enlargement

With this information, your doctor can assess your heart risk with far more precision and tailor a preventive or treatment plan based on real-time data — not just guesswork.

Why Choose GLMI for Preventive Heart Imaging?

At Great Lakes Medical Imaging, we combine cutting-edge technology with compassionate care to deliver accurate, efficient cardiovascular imaging. We work closely with your primary care physician or cardiologist to ensure the right test is selected for your needs and that the results are available quickly.

Our team of board-certified radiologists and technologists ensures every patient receives personalized care, whether you're coming in for a routine scan or a more complex assessment.

We offer:

• Low-dose CT coronary calcium scoring
• Vascular and cardiac ultrasound
• Nuclear medicine cardiac studies
• Convenient Buffalo-area locations
• Fast scheduling and report turnaround

Take a Proactive Approach to Heart Health

Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. If you’re over 50 or have a family history of heart disease, schedule an imaging appointment at GLMI today. Early detection can help prevent heart attacks, strokes, and other serious complications — and give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing where your health stands.

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical conditions or concerns you may have.