The Importance of Detecting Subclinical Atherosclerosis in the Young Population and Its Prognostic Role

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remain one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, and their clinical manifestations typically occur years after the onset of atherosclerosis. Considering that numerous studies have demonstrated a high prevalence of atherosclerosis even among subjectively healthy middle-aged individuals, its detection at an early stage is of foremost importance. Identification of subclinical atherosclerosis enables the timely implementation of primary preventive and therapeutic interventions, thereby reducing the incidence of cardiovascular complications. In cardiovascular risk assessment, the visualization and quantification of subclinical atherosclerosis using non-invasive vascular imaging techniques play a significant role. Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) provides valuable prognostic information in both symptomatic and asymptomatic coronary artery disease (CAD). Furthermore, in the absence of atherosclerotic findings, it predicts favorable long-term outcomes, whereas in patients with CAD, it facilitates accurate risk stratification. As a non-invasive imaging modality with minimal psychological burden, CCTA has particular prognostic value for detecting subclinical atherosclerosis in young adults aged 18–44 years.