Imaging for prevention.

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease deaths have declined considerably, with more than 35% reductions during the past two decades, yet a sizable detection gap remains. Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States and across the world, including in developing and developed nations. Recent statistics reveal that approximately 840,000 deaths were attributed to cardiovascular disease, approximately 300,000 more deaths than reported for cancer; three-quarters were reported in previously asymptomatic individuals, raising the question as to whether screening for cardiovascular disease is warranted in detecting potentially high-risk patients.