Rasmussen Center: Screening Procedures
Overview
A complete screening takes about one to two hours. Other than blood sampling, the procedures are non-invasive, painless, require no preparation and take only a few minutes each. Couple or individual appointments are available.
Early Diagnostic Detection Tests
Non-Invasive Tests:
- Measurement of elasticity of artery walls
- Digital photograph of the small arteries in the eye (eye dilation not required)
- Blood pressure response to treadmill exercise
- Urine test to detect a leak of albumin that occurs in small artery disease (microalbumin)
- Ultrasound examination to identify changes in the wall of the arteries of the neck
- Ultrasound examinations of both the heart structure and abdominal aorta
- Electrocardiogram
- Pulmonary Function Test
Blood Tests:
- Natruetic Peptide
- Total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, Triglycerides
- Blood sugar (glucose)
Risk Factor Assessment and Cardiovascular Physical Exam
During the risk factor assessment, a nurse practitioner will review family history, past medical history, health habits, and nutrition. The nurse practitioner will conduct an exam focused on the heart, lungs, and circulation, and will make recommendations about needed lifestyle changes.
Results
Historically, 50% of individuals screened were free of early cardiovascular disease abnormalities. We recommend re-screening at five year intervals.
20% received recommendations for lifestyle changes. We recommend re-screening within one to three years.
30% received recommendations for medications to slow or halt progression of early disease. Based upon individual results, the medicines used include statin drugs, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, beta-blockers, and aspirin.
Screening Follow-up
Each patient is provided with a Results Profile detailing the results of the tests and guidance for care management. Recommendations may include dietary, life-style or medication advice. Recent data confirms that early intervention with effective drug therapy can slow progression of disease and prevent morbid events. Screening reports can be provided to physicians/providers for follow-up when needed. If no physician is available, the Rasmussen Center can provide intial treatment until a long term provider can be identified.
Evidence-Based Prevention
Rasmussen Center results have been widely disseminated at primary care medicine and preventive cardiology conferences and seminars throughout the USA and abroad. Recent publications are appearing in leading medical journals.