The Pooled Cohort Equations combine data from several large US cohorts and are the basis for statin recommendations in US guidelines. They apply to adults aged 40–79 without existing cardiovascular disease and may overestimate risk in some modern populations.
How to use the ASCVD Risk Calculator
- Sex
- Age
- Race
- Total cholesterol
- HDL cholesterol
- Systolic blood pressure
- On blood pressure treatment
- Diabetes
- Current smoker
Results update as you type, and every field accepts the units shown in its menu.
How it works
Enter your details. For people of other ethnic backgrounds, the white equations are generally used.
Inputs explained
| Field | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Sex | Choose one: Male, Female |
| Age | In years |
| Race | Choose one: White or other, African American |
| Total cholesterol | Units: mg/dL, mmol/L |
| HDL cholesterol | Units: mg/dL, mmol/L |
| Systolic blood pressure | In mmHg |
| On blood pressure treatment | Choose one: No, Yes |
| Diabetes | Choose one: No, Yes |
| Current smoker | Choose one: No, Yes |
Health note: this calculator is for education and screening only and is not a diagnosis or treatment advice. Discuss your results with a qualified clinician.
Formula
Risk = 1 − S₀^exp(Σβx − mean), with separate coefficients for white and African-American men and women
Low < 5% · borderline 5–7.4% · intermediate 7.5–19.9% · high ≥ 20%
Worked example
Inputs — Sex: Male; Age: 55 years; Race: White or other; Total cholesterol: 200 mg/dL; HDL cholesterol: 50 mg/dL; Systolic blood pressure: 130 mmHg; On blood pressure treatment: No; Diabetes: No; Current smoker: No.
Results — 10-year ASCVD risk = 5.7 %; Statin discussion (2018 ACC/AHA) = Consider statin if risk enhancers present.
Key terms
- ASCVD
- Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease: heart attack, coronary death or stroke.
Frequently asked questions
What is a high ASCVD risk?
20% or more over 10 years; 7.5–19.9% is intermediate.
Why does race matter in the equations?
The original cohorts showed different risk patterns; newer PREVENT equations remove race.
Does a low score mean no risk?
No – lifetime risk can still be high, especially in younger people with risk factors.