The essential role of dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry in the prediction of subclinical cardiovascular disease

Abstract

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Subclinical cardiovascular disease (Sub-CVD) is an early stage of cardiovascular disease and is often asymptomatic. Risk factors, including hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and lifestyle, significantly affect Sub-CVD. Progress in imaging technology has facilitated the timely identification of disease phenotypes and risk categorization. The critical function of dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in predicting Sub-CVD was the subject of this research. Initially used to evaluate bone mineral density, DXA has now evolved into an indispensable tool for assessing body composition, which is a pivotal determinant in estimating cardiovascular risk. DXA offers precise measurements of body fat, lean muscle mass, bone density, and abdominal aortic calcification, rendering it an essential tool for Sub-CVD evaluation. This study examined the efficacy of DXA in integrating various risk factors into a comprehensive assessment and how the application of machine learning could enhance the early discovery and control of cardiovascular risks. DXA exhibits distinct advantages and constraints compared to alternative imaging modalities such as ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and positron emission tomography. This review advocates DXA incorporation into cardiovascular health assessments, emphasizing its crucial role in the early identification and management of Sub-CVD.

Keywords

• cardiovascular risk assessment
• subclinical cardiovascular disease
• body composition analysis
• abdominal aortic calcification
• dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry