South Asians with a family history of heart disease are more likely to have high levels of calcium build up in their arteries which can increase their risk of heart attack and stroke.
The findings in a US study suggest that family history may be a more important predictor for south Asians compared to other ethnic groups. However,for those who have a family history of coronary diseases, a CT scan to check for coronary artery calcium may be warranted for.
Another study found that patients who do not have any calcium build up in their coronary arteries are at a very low risk of heart attack or stroke even if they have other cardiac risk factors like such as diabetes, high blood pressure and bad cholesterol levels.
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