Early Heart Disease Detection and the Calcium Score Revolution with Dr. Joel Kahn

Why do we screen for cancer but not the leading cause of death — heart disease? Today, we explore innovative strategies for early detection, prevention, and effective intervention in cardiovascular health.

Join hosts Dr. Emmie Brown, ND, and Melissa Gentile, INHC, as they welcome Dr. Joel Kahn, a renowned cardiologist and advocate for plant-based nutrition and holistic approaches to heart health. Dr. Kahn delves into why heart disease has stubbornly remained the leading cause of death despite medical advancements, highlighting the need for a paradigm shift in prevention and early detection.

Dr. Kahn critiques the current lack of attention paid to proactive cardiovascular screening, noting the puzzling discrepancy between routine cancer screenings and the absence of widespread use of tools like coronary artery calcium (CAC) CT scans for asymptomatic adults. He champions a personalized, comprehensive approach, moving beyond basic lipid panels and into genetic testing, advanced inflammatory markers, and detailed imaging.

They also discuss dietary strategies, including debates on the role of protein and seed oils in heart risk, the importance of the endothelial glycocalyx, and recommendations for clinicians to assess and communicate vascular risk. Dr. Kahn challenges both traditional and trendy wellness beliefs, promoting evidence-based, personalized strategies in integrative cardiology.

Key Takeaways from Today’s Episode:

📌 Early heart disease is often asymptomatic; advanced screening is essential.

📌 Calcification score via CT is a powerful preventive tool underutilized in practice.

📌 Functional cardiology incorporates advanced labs, lifestyle, and genetics.

📌 Statins lower LDL but may increase lipoprotein(a); niacin remains relevant.

📌 Whole food plant-based diets consistently correlate with lower cardiovascular risk.

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Find out more about Dr. Joel Kahn here…

💻 Khan Center for Cardiac Logevity

📖 Get a copy of his latest book, Lipoprotein(a), The Heart's Quiet Killer: A Diet & Lifestyle Guide

🎧 Check out his podcast Heart Doc VIP

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