Arterial Age Calculator

Arterial age, also called vascular or heart age, translates a cardiovascular risk estimate into an age that is easier to understand. The calculator first applies sex-specific Framingham general cardiovascular disease equations to chronological age, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, systolic blood pressure, blood pressure treatment, smoking, and diabetes. It then finds the age of a person of the same sex with reference cholesterol, HDL, and blood pressure values and no smoking, diabetes, or treatment whose estimated risk is closest to yours. An arterial age equal to chronological age means the entered risk profile is similar to the reference profile at that age. A higher arterial age suggests that modifiable factors make cardiovascular risk resemble that of an older reference person. A lower value suggests a comparatively favorable profile. The number is a communication aid rather than a literal measurement of artery tissue, plaque, stiffness, or biological aging. Use measured values whenever possible. Total and HDL cholesterol usually come from a lipid panel. Systolic pressure is the upper blood pressure number; several properly taken readings are more representative than a single reading during stress or illness. Mark treatment yes if medication is being used to lower blood pressure. Smoking refers to current tobacco smoking, and diabetes should reflect a clinical diagnosis. Changing any of these inputs can illustrate how each factor contributes to the combined estimate, but the model does not prove that an individual intervention will produce the exact displayed age change. Framingham equations were derived from population data and have limitations for individuals, age ranges, and populations that differ from the original cohorts. Cardiovascular assessment may also consider LDL cholesterol, kidney disease, family history, pregnancy history, inflammatory conditions, ethnicity, and coronary calcium, which are not represented here. Do not use this result to start, stop, or change medication. Discuss concerning results and prevention decisions with a qualified clinician who can interpret the estimate alongside your full history and current guidelines.