What is a cardiovascular risk assessment? A Consultant Cardiologist's guide
A cardiovascular risk assessment estimates your likelihood of a future heart attack, stroke or related event, and, just as importantly, identifies what can be done to lower it. It combines your age, blood pressure, cholesterol profile, blood sugar, smoking history, weight and family history, and where useful it adds direct measures such as an ECG or imaging of the arteries. The result is a personalised view of risk rather than a one-size-fits-all figure.
Risk is not fixed. Most of the factors that drive it can be changed, and a good assessment shows not only where you stand today but which specific steps will make the biggest difference for you. At the Devonshire Street clinic in London, the assessment is carried out by Professor Michael Henein, a Professor of Cardiology whose imaging and clinical expertise is recognised internationally. He is able to refine a standard risk estimate with direct evidence from the heart and arteries, which often changes the picture meaningfully for an individual patient and leads to a more accurate plan.
Who needs a cardiovascular risk assessment in London?
An assessment is valuable for people with raised cholesterol or blood pressure, those with diabetes, anyone with a family history of early cardiovascular disease, and people who simply want a clear baseline. It is also helpful when deciding whether to start or adjust preventive medication, and when a previous decision needs review. Patients attend from across London, Marylebone, Harley Street and Central London.
What to expect on the day
1
A detailed review of your medical history, lifestyle and family history, alongside any recent blood results.
2
Blood pressure measurement and an ECG, with cardiac imaging added where it will refine the estimate.
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Professor Henein explains your individual risk and the factors driving it, rather than quoting a score in isolation.
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You leave with a written plan setting out lifestyle steps, any treatment and any further tests.
Types of assessment offered
A focused assessment relies on history, blood pressure, cholesterol and an ECG. A more detailed assessment adds imaging such as a coronary calcium score or an echocardiogram to measure risk more directly. Where cholesterol is the main concern, ongoing care can continue through a dedicated cholesterol management clinic. The approach is chosen with you, keeping testing proportionate and useful.
Why choose Professor Henein for a cardiovascular risk assessment in London
Estimating risk well requires more than entering numbers into a calculator. It calls for the judgement to know when a standard estimate should be refined with direct imaging, and how to translate the result into a practical plan. Professor Henein is a Consultant Cardiologist and Professor of Cardiology with internationally recognised cardiology expertise supported by extensive academic achievements in UK and European universities, including Imperial College London and Umea University, Sweden.
Care follows the standards expected of UK cardiology practice, informed by guidance from bodies such as NICE and the British Cardiovascular Society.
Common questions about a cardiovascular risk assessment in London
What does a cardiovascular risk assessment measure?
It estimates your likelihood of a future heart attack or stroke by combining blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, lifestyle and family history, refined with imaging where useful.
How is it different from a standard risk score?
A standard score relies on averages. Direct measures such as a calcium score or echocardiogram can refine the estimate for you as an individual.
Can my risk change over time?
Yes. Risk can rise or fall as your blood pressure, cholesterol, weight and lifestyle change, which is why periodic review is valuable.
What happens after the assessment?
You receive a written plan setting out lifestyle steps, any treatment and any further tests recommended.
Do I need a referral for a risk assessment?
Many patients arrange an appointment directly. If you are claiming through private insurance, your insurer may ask for a GP referral first.
Book a cardiovascular risk assessment in London
To arrange a cardiovascular risk assessment with Professor Michael Henein, contact the clinic at 16 Devonshire Street, London W1G 7AF, in the heart of the Marylebone medical district. Appointments are available to patients across London, Marylebone, Harley Street and the surrounding areas. To book, call +44 20 7228 8546 or email hayley.gibbs@hcaconsultant.co.uk, or use the booking button on this page to request an appointment. Professor Henein oversees each stage of your care, from your first appointment through any imaging, diagnosis and treatment, so your heart is looked after by one experienced consultant throughout.