Heart Disease Screening: Why checks can begin at any age

The American Heart Association recommends routine heart screenings beginning at age 20, and the article describes common checks (blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose) plus additional cardiac tests for people at higher risk.

Heart disease is described as the leading cause of death in the United States and can be present without clear symptoms until serious events occur. The article notes that American Heart Month and related awareness efforts highlight the role of routine screening. The American Heart Association is reported to recommend starting routine cardiovascular screenings at age 20 to establish baselines. The piece outlines common screening intervals and mentions additional tests for people identified as higher risk. Key points: - Heart disease is reported as the top cause of death in the U.S. and can be asymptomatic until a major event. - The American Heart Association recommends routine screenings beginning at age 20 to establish health baselines. - Typical screening measures discussed include blood pressure checks, cholesterol tests, and blood glucose testing at intervals described for different risk levels. - The article notes that people at higher risk (for example, those with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking history, or family history) may receive more frequent or additional cardiac testing. - Additional diagnostic options listed include electrocardiograms, echocardiograms, stress tests, cardiac CT angiography, and peripheral angiography. Summary: Routine screenings are presented as a way to identify common, often silent risk factors such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. The article reports recommended starting ages and intervals, and it notes that higher-risk individuals may receive more frequent or more detailed testing. Undetermined at this time.