Heart screening tests are crucial for early detection and management of cardiovascular diseases, including coronary artery disease. In Singapore, a range of heart screening tests are available, each designed to assess different aspects of cardiovascular health. In this article, we will explore the various tests for health screening for heart diseases in Singapore, their purposes, and what you can expect during each procedure.
Recognising Symptoms Of Coronary Heart Disease
Being aware of potential warning signs of heart problems can prompt timely medical attention. Symptoms to watch for include:
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Shortness of breath
- Palpitations
- Fainting or dizziness
- High blood pressure
What Is Heart Screening?
Heart screening involves a series of tests and evaluations designed to detect early signs of heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions. The main goals are to identify risk factors such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol, and to find evidence of any existing heart disease. Early detection through heart screening can lead to timely interventions, potentially preventing serious health issues like heart attacks and strokes.
Why is Heart Screening Important?
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, claiming approximately 18 million lives each year. In Singapore, the trend is similar, with heart disease being a significant health concern. According to the Singapore Heart Foundation, 23 people die from cardiovascular disease (heart diseases and stroke) everyday. It accounted for 30.9% of all deaths in 2023, which means that almost 1 out of 3 deaths in Singapore is due to heart diseases or stroke.
By undergoing regular heart screening, individuals can detect risk factors and early signs of heart disease, allowing for preventive measures and treatments that can save lives.
Who Should Undergo Heart Screening?
Recommendations from the Ministry of Health, Singapore
The Ministry of Health in Singapore provides guidelines on who should undergo heart screening:
- Blood Pressure – Individuals over 40 should have their blood pressure checked at least once a year.
- Cholesterol – Regular cholesterol checks are recommended for those over 40, individuals who have had a heart attack or stroke, those with diabetes, a family history of high cholesterol, and those with other risk factors like smoking or high blood pressure.
- Obesity – All adults over 18 should have their Body Mass Index (BMI) checked annually.
- Diabetes – Screening for diabetes should begin at age 40, or earlier if there are additional risk factors such as high blood pressure or obesity.
Importance Of Family History
Family history plays a crucial role in assessing heart disease risk. A family history of heart disease, particularly if relatives experienced heart problems before the age of 65, can indicate a genetic predisposition to conditions like familial hyperlipidemia, which involves high cholesterol levels.
What to Expect During A Heart Screening
The components of a heart screening can vary based on the package chosen, but generally include the following:
Basic Components
- Consultation – A cardiologist will discuss your medical history, symptoms, family history, and lifestyle factors such as smoking and alcohol consumption.
- Physical Examination – The doctor will check for signs of heart and vascular disease, such as heart murmurs, abnormal breath sounds, and swelling in the legs.
- Cholesterol Check – A blood test to measure different types of cholesterol. This test requires fasting for 10-12 hours to ensure accurate triglyceride levels.
- Blood Pressure Check – Your blood pressure will be measured, ideally in a calm and relaxed state.
- Diabetes Check – A fasting blood test to measure blood glucose levels and HbA1c, which indicates long-term blood sugar levels.
- Obesity Screening – Your height and weight will be measured to calculate your BMI.
Advanced Screening Options
Beyond the basic tests, more comprehensive heart screening packages may include advanced imaging tests such as CT scans and MRIs to provide a detailed view of the heart and blood vessels.
Heart Screening In Singapore
1. Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG)
An electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) is a fundamental test that records the electrical activity of the heart. It is essential for evaluating heart rhythm problems, heart attacks, and other heart conditions such as heart blockages, pericarditis, and myocarditis.
Why Is It Done?
- To assess heart rhythm abnormalities.
- To detect previous heart attacks.
- To check for signs of heart blockages or inflammation.
Procedure
During an ECG, small sensors are attached to the limbs and chest while the patient lies on a couch. The test is quick, painless, and non-invasive, typically taking only a few minutes.
2. Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram, often referred to as an “echo,” uses ultrasound waves to create detailed images of the heart. It provides crucial information about the heart’s structure and function.
Why is it Done?
- To evaluate the heart’s pump function.
- To measure the thickness of the heart muscle.
- To assess heart valve function.
- To detect signs of previous heart attacks and cardiomyopathies.
Procedure
The test is non-invasive and involves using a hand-held wand to send high-frequency sound waves to the heart, which are then converted into detailed images. An echocardiogram takes about 40 to 60 minutes to perform.
3. Stress Tests
Stress tests measure how the heart performs under physical stress, which can reveal conditions not apparent during rest.
Types of Stress Tests
- Treadmill ECG – Also known as an exercise tolerance test, this involves walking on a treadmill while connected to an ECG machine.
- Stress Echocardiography – Combines an echocardiogram with a stress test to observe the heart’s movement during exercise.
- Nuclear Stress Test – Involves exercising or taking medication to stress the heart, along with a radioactive tracer to assess blood flow.
Why Are They Done?
- To detect coronary artery disease.
- To evaluate heart function during physical activity.
- To identify areas of the heart with poor blood flow.
Procedure
The patient exercises on a treadmill or bike, or takes medication to stress the heart, while heart function is monitored using ECG, echo, or nuclear imaging.
4. CT Calcium Score
A CT calcium score uses a CT scanner to measure the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries, providing a score that indicates the risk of coronary artery disease.
Why Is It Done?
- To predict the risk of future heart attacks.
- To assess the presence of coronary artery disease.
Procedure
The non-invasive test involves lying on a CT scanner bed while images are taken. No injections are required, and the test is quick and painless.
5. Carotid And Femoral Doppler Ultrasound
This ultrasound assesses the arteries in the neck (carotid) and legs (femoral), checking for plaques and measuring the thickness of the artery walls.
Why Is It Done?
- To evaluate the risk of stroke and heart attack.
- To detect arterial disease.
Procedure
The non-invasive test involves placing an ultrasound probe on the neck or leg to visualise the arteries and measure their health.
6. CT Coronary Angiography (CTCA)
CT coronary angiography uses a X-ray CT scanner to obtain detailed images of the coronary arteries, identifying any blockages.
Why Is It Done?
- To detect blockages in the coronary arteries.
- To assess coronary artery disease.
Procedure
The test requires an injection of a dye (contrast) and involves lying on a CT scanner bed.
7. Cardiac MRI
Cardiac MRI uses magnetic resonance imaging to provide detailed pictures of the heart’s structures and functions without using radiation.
Why Is It Done?
- To assess heart function.
- To detect previous myocardial infarctions (heart attacks).
- To diagnose heart muscle diseases.
Procedure
The test involves lying inside an MRI machine for detailed imaging, sometimes with the use of a contrast agent.
8. Invasive Coronary Angiogram
An invasive coronary angiogram is used to directly visualise the coronary arteries for blockages by inserting a catheter into the arteries and injecting contrast dye.
Why Is It Done?
- To confirm significant blockages detected by non-invasive tests.
- To plan treatment for coronary artery disease.
Procedure
A catheter is inserted into an artery in the wrist or groyne and guided to the heart. Contrast dye is injected, and X-ray images are taken.
9. Blood Tests For Heart Health
Several blood tests can also help assess heart and vascular risk such as:
- NT-proBNP – Indicates heart failure by measuring a protein produced by the heart.
- High Sensitivity CRP (hsCRP) – Measures inflammation and predicts cardiovascular disease risk.
- Troponin – Elevated levels suggest heart muscle damage or a recent heart attack.
Contact Us For Health Screening For Heart Diseases In Singapore
Health365 has partnerships with trusted healthcare providers in Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. Contact us for heart screening tests in Singapore and an introduction to a doctor.
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This article is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.