Why the study?
Data were limited evaluating imaging-based biomarkers that directly quantify atherosclerosis across different vascular beds performed in a single cohort.
Population
5,808 asymptomatic U.S. adults
Comparison
CAC and novel 3-dimensional carotid ultrasound plaque burden
Design
Prospective cohort study
Follow-up
Median 2.7 years
Key result
Higher carotid plaque burden (highest tertile vs none) significantly predicted major adverse cardiac events in asymptomatic adults (HR 2.36; 95% CI 1.13-4.92).
Authors
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May refine risk stratification in asymptomatic adults; leaves open incremental value beyond standard factors pending randomized validation.
Cohort (n=5,808)
Effect estimate: HR 2.36 (95% CI 1.13-4.92)
Baber et al. (2015) conducted a cohort in Subclinical atherosclerosis (n=5,808). Carotid plaque burden (cPB) and coronary artery calcification (CAC) imaging vs. Individuals without any cPB or conventional risk factors was evaluated on Composite of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) (cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, and ischemic stroke) (HR 2.36, 95% CI 1.13-4.92). Higher carotid plaque burden (highest tertile vs none) significantly predicted major adverse cardiac events in asymptomatic adults (HR 2.36; 95% CI 1.13-4.92).