Is a coronary calcium score of 0.4 risky?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I am a 47-year-old male who has been hypertensive for the past seven years. I take daily medication to control my blood pressure, and I do not have any other health problems. I visited my cardiologist last week for my yearly medical checkup. My LDL level is 170 mg/dL, HDL is 41 mg/dL, the ECG is normal, and my blood tests came back normal. However, my calcium score test result is 0.4 (with minimal plaque on the LAD), which is defined as minimal risk. I do not clearly understand this calcium score test result. Do I have any risk? Should I use statins to reduce my cholesterol levels?

Answered by Dr. Sagar Ramesh Makode

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sagar Ramesh Makode is a Consultant Cardiologist dedicated to diagnosing and managing various heart conditions with precision and care. He focuses on improving cardiovascular health through advanced treatments and preventive strategies. With expertise in providing personalized care, he strives to support patients in achieving better heart health, enhancing their quality of life, and reducing the risk of future cardiac complications.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

A calcium score of 0.4 indicates no identifiable disease, while a score of 1 to 99 suggests mild disease. A score between 0 and 1 indicates minimal disease. This is considered near normal, and there is no significant risk associated with it. However, I recommend that you consider taking statins, as your LDL (low-density lipoprotein) level is quite high. Statins play a preventive role in reducing the risk of blockages.

To maintain a healthy lifestyle, you should follow these guidelines:

  1. Avoid a diet high in fat, oil, and calories.
  2. Follow a low-salt diet and monitor your blood pressure regularly.
  3. Engage in regular exercise, such as brisk walking or jogging, for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week, according to your capacity.
  4. Consume plenty of green leafy vegetables and fruits, and include fish in your diet once or twice a week while avoiding meat.
  5. If you smoke or consume alcohol, it is advisable to avoid these habits.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by Dr. K. Shobana
Published At April 4, 2017
Reviewed At March 19, 2026

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sagar Ramesh Makode is a Consultant Cardiologist dedicated to diagnosing and managing various heart conditions with precision and care. He focuses on improving cardiovascular health through advanced treatments and preventive strategies. With expertise in providing personalized care, he strives to support patients in achieving better heart health, enhancing their quality of life, and reducing the risk of future cardiac complications.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. K. Shobana is a Dental Surgeon specializing in oral health and dental care. She is skilled in preventive dentistry and provides oral hygiene education. She can do restorative treatments such as fillings and crowns. She can handle periodontal problems such as gum diseases and periodontitis. She can do root canal treatment.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sagar Ramesh Makode is a Consultant Cardiologist dedicated to diagnosing and managing various heart conditions with precision and care. He focuses on improving cardiovascular health through advanced treatments and preventive strategies. With expertise in providing personalized care, he strives to support patients in achieving better heart health, enhancing their quality of life, and reducing the risk of future cardiac complications.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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