See attached. I have average blood pressure and slightly elevated cholestrol (180-200) but had a CAC (calcium score) of 82, which was surprising. My doc and I expected a 0. Under 100 (but not zero) is indicative of a slightly elevated risk of heart disease. A discussion with a cardiologist revealed the latest data here, which may indicate that high intensity and endurance athletes may be more susceptible to elevated CAC. Anyways, good info for us bikers.
Summary:
Exercise intensity but not volume was associated with the progression of CAC and (mainly calcified) plaques during 6-year follow-up. Very vigorous exercise intensity (>9 METs) was associated with greater CAC and calcified plaque progression, whereas vigorous-intensity exercise (<9 METs) was associated with less CAC progression.11 A recent cross-sectional analysis from the CCLS showed that a higher weekly duration of activity was associated with more CAC, but a higher average intensity of activity was associated with less CAC in this population.12 Thus, more research is needed before final conclusions can be made regarding the impact of differences in training characteristics on coronary atherosclerosis.
Summary:
Exercise intensity but not volume was associated with the progression of CAC and (mainly calcified) plaques during 6-year follow-up. Very vigorous exercise intensity (>9 METs) was associated with greater CAC and calcified plaque progression, whereas vigorous-intensity exercise (<9 METs) was associated with less CAC progression.11 A recent cross-sectional analysis from the CCLS showed that a higher weekly duration of activity was associated with more CAC, but a higher average intensity of activity was associated with less CAC in this population.12 Thus, more research is needed before final conclusions can be made regarding the impact of differences in training characteristics on coronary atherosclerosis.
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