1. What is the Canadian CV Risk Calculator?

The Canadian CV Risk Calculator estimates cardiovascular disease risk using either the Framingham risk score or CANSCORE methodology. It provides an assessment of an individual's 10-year risk of developing cardiovascular events.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses established cardiovascular risk equations:

Explanation: The equation incorporates multiple risk factors including age, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, smoking status, and diabetes to estimate cardiovascular risk.

3. Importance of CV Risk Assessment

Details: Cardiovascular risk assessment is essential for primary prevention, helping to identify individuals who may benefit from lifestyle modifications or pharmacological interventions to reduce their risk of heart disease and stroke.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all required clinical parameters accurately. The calculator requires valid inputs for all risk factors to provide an accurate risk estimation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between Framingham and CANSCORE?
A: Framingham is based on US population data while CANSCORE is calibrated for the Canadian population, potentially providing more accurate risk estimates for Canadians.

Q2: What risk factors are considered?
A: Typical factors include age, gender, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, smoking status, diabetes, and sometimes family history.

Q3: How often should CV risk be assessed?
A: Generally every 3-5 years for adults over 40, or more frequently if risk factors change significantly.

Q4: What do the risk percentages mean?
A: The percentage represents the 10-year probability of experiencing a major cardiovascular event (heart attack, stroke, or cardiovascular death).

Q5: Are there limitations to this calculator?
A: Risk calculators provide estimates and may not account for all individual factors. Clinical judgment should always accompany calculator results.