Heart Screening
Heart Screening in Singapore
Heart screening is a crucial preventative measure that helps in the early detection of cardiovascular diseases. Regular heart screenings can identify risk factors such as high blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other indicators that may lead to serious heart conditions.
What Is (Cardiac) Heart Screening?
Cardiac or heart screening involves a series of tests and evaluations designed to detect early signs of heart disease. These screenings can include blood tests, electrocardiograms (ECG), echocardiograms, stress tests, and imaging studies like CT scans or MRIs. The goal is to identify risk factors or symptoms that could indicate potential cardiovascular issues before they become serious problems.
Who Should Consider Heart Screening?
Heart disease is a significant health concern in Singapore, as it is one of the leading causes of death. In 2020, cardiovascular disease in Singapore was responsible for 31.4% of all deaths. This translates to nearly one in three deaths in Singapore being caused by heart diseases or strokes.
Heart disease screening is a proactive measure to detect potential cardiovascular issues early and manage risk factors effectively. While it is beneficial for everyone to stay informed about their heart health, certain individuals are at a higher risk and should consider a regular heart health screening:
- Individuals Aged 40 and Above – As age increases, so does the risk of heart disease. Regular screenings can help catch any early signs of heart problems.
- Family History of Heart Disease – Those with a family history of heart conditions should be particularly vigilant, as genetics can play a significant role in cardiovascular health.
- Previous Heart Conditions – Individuals who have had previous heart conditions, such as heart attacks or strokes, should undergo regular screenings to monitor their heart health.
- Existing Health Conditions – People with conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or high cholesterol are at an increased risk of developing heart disease.
Types of Heart Screening Tests
Regular heart screening tests are essential for early detection and prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
- Electrocardiography (ECG or EKG) – ECG measures the electrical activity of the heart using electrodes placed on the skin. This quick and non-invasive test can detect arrhythmias, heart attacks, and other heart abnormalities.
- Echocardiography (Echo) – This non-invasive test uses ultrasound waves to create detailed images of the heart’s structure and function. It provides comprehensive information about heart size, shape, and movement.
- CT Coronary Artery Calcium Scoring – This is a CT scan that measures the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries. This is non-invasive and helps assess the risk of coronary artery disease.
- CT Coronary Angiography – This uses a CT scan with contrast dye to visualise the coronary arteries. This non-invasive test is highly accurate in detecting blockages and other issues in coronary arteries.
- Coronary Angiography – This is an invasive procedure where a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel and guided to the coronary arteries, followed by the injection of contrast dye and X-ray imaging. It provides highly detailed images of the coronary arteries and is considered the gold standard for detecting blockages in the heart.
- Exercise Cardiac Stress Test – This diagnostic test monitors heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG while the patient exercises on a treadmill or stationary bike. It can reveal how the heart responds to physical stress.
- 24h Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABP) – This test uses a portable device that measures and records blood pressure at regular intervals over 24 hours. It provides a comprehensive assessment of blood pressure variations throughout the day and night.
- Chest X-rays – This uses X-ray imaging to view the chest, lungs, and heart. It is useful in detecting lung problems that affect heart function.
- Invasive Cardiac Catheterisation (ICA) – This involves inserting a catheter into the heart through a blood vessel, often to measure pressures within the heart chambers and take blood samples. It provides detailed information about heart function and blood flow.
- Other Tests:
- Nuclear Stress Test – This test uses radioactive dye and imaging to see blood flow to the heart both at rest and under stress. It offers a detailed evaluation of blood flow.
- MRI Scan – This provides detailed images of the heart without radiation, which is useful for soft tissue evaluation.
- Blood Tests (Cholesterol and Blood Glucose) – Here, blood samples are taken to measure cholesterol levels and blood glucose which helps identify potential risk factors for heart disease.
- Body Weight and BMI – This test takes weight and height measurements to calculate Body Mass Index (BMI) and assess the risk for heart diseases related to obesity.
How to Prepare for Cardiac Screening Tests
Proper preparation for your heart health tests is crucial to ensure accurate results and a smooth testing process. This includes taking your prescribed medications (unless otherwise advised) and getting at least 7-8 hours of sleep the night before the test. It is advisable to limit your caffeine intake, stop smoking, and refrain from consuming large meals and alcohol before the test.
Many heart health tests require fasting to get accurate results:
Fasting Requirements
Many heart health tests require fasting to get accurate results:
- Blood Lipid Profile (Cholesterol and Triglycerides) – Fast for 9-12 hours before the test. You should not eat or drink anything except water during this period.
- Glucose Levels – Typically require fasting for 8-10 hours.
- Other Blood Tests – Some may also require fasting, so always follow your doctor's instructions closely.
If you have any specific health conditions (like diabetes), consult your doctor for tailored fasting guidelines.
What to Expect During Your Heart Health Screening
During your heart health screening, you can expect the following:
- The cardiologist will review your medical history and ask about any symptoms you may be experiencing.
- You may be asked to change into a gown for some tests.
- Blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels will be measured using non-invasive devices such as a blood pressure cuff and pulse oximeter.
- A blood sample may be taken through a small needle prick on your finger or arm for testing.
- Depending on the type of test being conducted, electrodes may be placed on your chest to measure your heart's electrical activity.
- You may also be asked to perform a stress test, where you will walk on a treadmill or ride a stationary bike while your heart activity is monitored.
What Comes After Your Heart Screening?
If a condition is detected, your doctor will discuss the findings, including its nature, potential impact, and management options. This may involve lifestyle adjustments, medications, or specific treatments.
Depending on the results, additional tests might be recommended, either immediately or at a later date. For those diagnosed with chronic heart conditions or with a family history of heart disease, regular heart check-ups with a cardiologist are essential. Specialised care can provide expert guidance, advanced treatments, and ongoing support tailored to individual needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is recommended to have a heart screening at least once every 1-2 years, especially if you have risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a family history of heart disease. Your doctor can provide personalised advice based on your health status.
Some heart screenings may be recommended to begin as early as age 20; while others may come later. However, if you have a family history of heart disease and other risk factors, your doctor may suggest a customised screening regimen for you.
A typical heart screening can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on the number and type of tests performed.
To lower your risk, maintain a healthy diet, engage in regular physical activity, avoid smoking, and limit alcohol consumption. Regular check-ups and managing conditions such as diabetes and hypertension are key.
Many heart screening packages are MediSave or insurance claimable, depending on the tests included, your medical need and your insurance policy. It is best to check with your doctor and insurer for detailed coverage information.
The cost of heart screening in Singapore varies widely depending on the tests performed and the healthcare facility it is performed at. Please contact us for detailed pricing information.
Our Insurance Partners
To keep our services accessible and convenient to our patients, we accept most major insurances and can assist with the claims process.
We encourage you to call our clinic so we can review your coverage and assist you accordingly.