Frequently Asked Questions

The ASCVD risk score is based on the Pooled Cohort Equations algorithm developed from ACC/AHA 2013 guidelines. It estimates your probability of having a cardiovascular event (such as heart attack or stroke) within the next 10 years. The score is based on factors including age, sex, race, cholesterol levels, blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking status.

Our calculator uses the same algorithm as clinical guidelines, but is for reference only. It was developed from large population studies, but individual circumstances may vary. We recommend discussing your results with your doctor for personalized advice.

We recommend calculating once a year, or whenever there are significant changes in your health (such as cholesterol level changes, starting or stopping medications, quitting smoking, etc.).

LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) is called "bad cholesterol" because it builds up in artery walls forming plaque. HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) is called "good cholesterol" because it helps remove LDL from your blood. Ideally, you want low LDL and high HDL levels.

Ways to lower cholesterol include: reducing saturated and trans fat intake, increasing dietary fiber, regular exercise, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption. If lifestyle changes aren't enough, your doctor may recommend medication.

Generally, total cholesterol below 200 mg/dL is considered ideal. 200-239 mg/dL is borderline high, and 240 mg/dL or above is high. However, it's more important to look at the specific values of LDL, HDL, and triglycerides.

Normal blood pressure should be below 120/80 mmHg. Systolic (top number) 120-129 with diastolic (bottom number) below 80 is "elevated blood pressure." 130/80 or higher is defined as hypertension.

Sit quietly for 5 minutes before measuring, avoid caffeine and smoking for 30 minutes prior, don't cross your legs, and keep your arm at heart level. We recommend measuring at the same time each day and recording multiple readings to get an average.

The free version offers 3 risk calculations, history storage (up to 20 entries), and trend charts. Pro ($2/month) offers unlimited calculations and CSV export. ProMAX ($5/month) additionally offers PDF report export and What-If simulator.

You can cancel anytime from your profile page. After cancellation, you can still use paid features until the current billing period ends. We don't charge cancellation fees.

Your health data is stored in your browser's local storage and synced through your Google account (if you're logged in). We don't sell or share your personal health information with third parties.

We currently support PayPal for secure payments. We plan to support more payment methods in the future.

The What-If simulator is a ProMAX feature that helps you predict how lifestyle changes might affect your risk. For example, it calculates how your risk would change if you quit smoking, lower your cholesterol, or reduce your blood pressure.

The PDF report includes your risk score, input health data, risk level explanation, and general recommendations. It's perfect for sharing with your doctor for discussion.

Calculation history is stored in your browser's local storage. If you log in with your Google account, data syncs to the cloud and can be accessed across different devices.