How Our Heart Age Calculator Works
Comprehensive overview of the scientific methodology, validation, and accuracy behind our heart age calculator based on the renowned Framingham Heart Study research
The Framingham Heart Study Legacy
Established in 1948, the Framingham Heart Study is one of the most important epidemiological studies in medical history. This landmark longitudinal research has been fundamental in understanding cardiovascular disease patterns and risk factors.
- Study Type: Longitudinal population-based cohort study
- Established: 1948, ongoing research
- Validation: Results validated across multiple populations worldwide
- Impact: Foundation for modern cardiovascular risk assessment
Mathematical Algorithm Details
Our calculator uses the 2008 Updated Framingham CVD Risk Score, which employs a sophisticated mathematical model based on Cox proportional hazards regression analysis.
Key Parameters & Their Scientific Coefficients:
- Age: Natural logarithm transformation (coefficient varies by gender)
- Total Cholesterol: Log-transformed with gender-specific weighting
- HDL Cholesterol: Inverse relationship (higher HDL = lower risk)
- Systolic Blood Pressure: Log-linear relationship
- Smoking Status: Binary risk multiplier
- Diabetes: Significant risk enhancement factor
Calculation Process:
- Transform inputs using natural logarithms
- Apply gender-specific regression coefficients
- Calculate linear predictor score
- Convert to 10-year CVD risk probability
- Map risk to biological heart age using population data
Heart Age Estimation Science
Heart age estimation uses age-stratified risk profiles derived from the Framingham population data. The algorithm compares your calculated cardiovascular risk to the typical risk patterns across different age groups.
Male Risk Profile (10-year CVD risk):
Female Risk Profile:
Clinical Validation & Accuracy
Accuracy
C-statistic: 0.76-0.82 (excellent predictive performance)
Validation
Validated across multiple ethnicities and populations globally
Clinical Use
Endorsed by AHA, ACC, and ESC guidelines
Statistical Coefficients & Technical Details
The Framingham algorithm uses gender-specific regression coefficients derived from decades of cardiovascular outcomes data.
Male Coefficients:
- Age: 3.06117
- Total Cholesterol: 1.12370
- HDL Cholesterol: -0.93263
- Systolic BP: 1.93303
- Smoker: 0.65451
- Diabetic: 0.57367
Female Coefficients:
- Age: 2.32888
- Total Cholesterol: 1.20904
- HDL Cholesterol: -0.70833
- Systolic BP: 2.76157
- Smoker: 0.52873
- Diabetic: 0.69154
Risk Categories & Interpretations
Risk categories are based on 10-year cardiovascular disease risk thresholds established by major cardiology organizations.
Low Risk
< 5% (10-year CVD risk)
Moderate Risk
5-10% (10-year CVD risk)
High Risk
10-20% (10-year CVD risk)
Very High Risk
> 20% (10-year CVD risk)