As a cardiologist, coronary artery disease is a common condition that I frequently discuss with patients. Coronary artery disease, often called CAD, develops when plaque gradually builds up inside the coronary arteries, a process known as atherosclerosis. Over time, this buildup causes the arteries that supply blood and oxygen to the heart to narrow and harden, making it harder for blood to reach the heart muscle. If left untreated, CAD can increase the risk of heart failure, strokes, heart attacks, and other serious heart-related complications.
What makes CAD especially concerning is that it often develops quietly. Many people feel well for years while plaque continues to accumulate in their arteries, without realizing that damage is occurring. In some cases, the first sign of CAD is a heart attack. Risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, being overweight, physical inactivity, increasing age, and a family history of heart disease all contribute to the development of CAD. Because symptoms do not always appear early, identifying heart disease before it causes problems is an important part of protecting long-term heart health.
One of the most effective tools we have to detect early signs of CAD is a heart CT calcium score. This non-invasive imaging test looks for calcium deposits in the coronary arteries. Calcium is a marker of plaque buildup, so its presence can indicate underlying CAD even when a person feels completely fine. The results of this test help us better understand a patient’s risk and guide decisions related to lifestyle changes, preventive care, and, when appropriate, medical treatment.
At DHR Health, we are currently offering a $49 heart CT calcium score screening special, which includes radiologist interpretation. To take advantage of this screening, individuals may qualify if they have a family history of heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure, or if they are overweight or obese. The screening is also recommended for men who are 45 years of age or older and women who are 50 years of age or older. A referral from a primary care provider is required. This quick and painless test provides valuable insight into the presence of CAD, allowing patients and physicians to identify heart disease early and take proactive steps to reduce
the risk of heart attacks and support long-term heart health. This offer is valid from February through April 2026.
If you have risk factors for heart disease or would like to learn more about your heart health, I encourage you to speak with your primary care provider about whether a heart CT calcium score may be right for you. Taking a proactive step today can make a meaningful difference for your heart and your future.
Dr. Francis Dimtri, DHR Health Cardiologist
5525 Doctors Drive Edinburg, TX 78539
To schedule an appointment, call (956) 362-8740
To learn more about cardiology services at DHR Health, visit https://dhrhealth.com/services/cardiology/
