New blood test predicts risk of heart attack and stroke with twice previous accuracy

New technique, already available in US, could aid in development of cardiovascular drugs

The test, which relies of measurements of proteins in the blood, has roughly twice the accuracy of existing risk scores. File picture: PA Wire

Scientists have developed a blood test that can predict whether someone is at high risk of a heart attack, stroke, heart failure or dying from one of these conditions within the next four years.

The test, which relies on measurements of proteins in the blood, has roughly twice the accuracy of existing risk scores. It could enable doctors to determine whether patients’ existing medications are working or whether they need additional drugs to reduce their risk.