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Cardiovascular Risk Calculator
Estimate your 10-year risk of cardiovascular disease using the Framingham general CVD model.
Risk categories (AHA/ACC)
| 10-year risk | Category |
|---|---|
| < 5 % | Low |
| 5 – 7.5 % | Borderline |
| 7.5 – 20 % | Intermediate |
| ≥ 20 % | High |
How it works
This calculator uses the D'Agostino general CVD Framingham model (Circulation 2008). Inputs: age, sex, total and HDL cholesterol, systolic blood pressure (treated/untreated), smoking, diabetes. Validated for ages 30–79. Output: 10-year probability of myocardial infarction, stroke, heart failure or peripheral artery disease.
This calculator does not replace medical diagnosis. If your risk is elevated, or you have chest pain, shortness of breath or a strong family history, see your physician or cardiologist promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 10-year risk mean?+
It estimates the probability of a cardiovascular event (heart attack, stroke, heart failure, peripheral artery disease) within the next 10 years. The figure is based on statistical models from large prospective cohort studies.
How does Framingham differ from SCORE2?+
Framingham (US, 2008) covers fatal and non-fatal events for ages 30–79. SCORE2 (Europe, ESC 2021) was recalibrated for European populations and is the official ESC recommendation for ages 40–69. Both produce comparable risk estimates.
What is heart age?+
Heart age is the chronological age of someone with optimal risk factors who has the same cardiovascular risk as you. A heart age above your real age signals avoidable risk through lifestyle or therapy.
What are ideal cholesterol values?+
Total cholesterol: < 190 mg/dL (4.9 mmol/L). LDL: < 116 mg/dL (3.0 mmol/L) — much lower in high-risk patients. HDL: men > 40 mg/dL, women > 48 mg/dL. Triglycerides: < 150 mg/dL. Source: ESC/EAS Guidelines 2019.
When is statin therapy recommended?+
AHA/ACC and ESC guidelines discuss statin therapy at a 10-year risk ≥ 7.5 % (intermediate) and generally recommend it at ≥ 20 %. The final decision is shared with the physician based on individual factors.
How can I lower my risk?+
Quitting smoking halves cardiovascular risk within 5 years. 150 min/week of moderate exercise halves heart attack risk. Mediterranean diet (PREDIMED): –30 %. Lowering systolic BP by 10 mmHg: –20 %. Lowering LDL by 1 mmol/L: –22 % events.
Background
Cardiovascular Risk Calculator: Framingham, SCORE2 and What the Numbers Mean
9 min