The Seton Heart Institute is offering a $49 Heart Healthy Computed Tomography Scan to test patients' risk level for heart disease and strokes at its Round Rock, Central Austin, Southwest Austin and Hays County facilities.

The test identifies the patient's coronary calcium score, which estimates the amount of cholesterol plaque in arteries. Dr. George Rodgers, a cardiologist at SHI, said the more plaque a person has, the more likely he or she is to have a heart attack.

The test is most recommended for men age

40 and older and women age 45 and older who have hypertension, a cholesterol level greater than

160 low density lipoprotein, diabetes, obesity, those who use tobacco or those with a family history of heart disease.

Rodgers said the scan takes about three minutes and is noninvasive. Some people are more likely to have a greater risk for heart disease, and by detecting issues early, preventative measures can be taken, he said.

"We all have different genetic vulnerabilities, so this really gives you a real measurable, quantifiable way of looking at your risk," he said.

To make an appointment for the Heart Healthy CT Scan, call 512-324-1199. For more information, visit www.setonheart.com/healthyct.