Why arent abnormal CIMT results forwarded to a participants family doctor?
The CIMT Ultrasound Screen measures the thickness of the carotid artery wall. It is a validated method to assess for early or pre-clinical signs of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). While an abnormal CIMT has been associated with a higher risk for heart attack and stroke, it does not by itself indicate the existence of mile, moderate or significant plaque build-up. As a result, an abnormal CIMT does not carry with it the same lever of urgency as would carotid artery ultrasound, and for this reason, SafeHeart does not forward to family doctors Results Reports based solely on an abnormal CIMT. Nonetheless, such a finding provides a screening participant with extremely valuable information, as it may indicate the need for more aggressive risk factor modification and/or lifestyle changes. It is information that we encourage participants to share with their family doctors at their convenience.
