Table 1 Consumer Reports heart/vascular prevention test ratings: asymptomatic men, 45–54 years of age
From: Communicating information about “what not to do” to consumers
Heart test | Rating | Benefits | Risks | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Blood pressure |
| Substantial | Minimal | Minimal |
Cholesterol |
| Substantial | Minimal | Minimal |
Blood glucose (diabetes) |
| Minimal | Minimal | Minimal |
C-reactive protein |
| Minimal | Minimal | Minimal |
Clogged peripheral arteries |
| Minimal | Moderate | Substantial |
Clogged carotid arteries |
| None | Moderate | Substantial |
Abdominal aortic aneurysm |
| None | Moderate | Substantial |
Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) |
| None | Moderate | Moderate |
Stress test (EKG) |
| None | Moderate | Moderate |
- Footnote: Ratings focus on whether “benefits outweigh risk.” The symbol key is as follows:
Very Likely 
Likely 
Uncertain 
Unlikely 
Very Unlikely
Likely