Southeast Montana News

Jason Banfield, assistant chief of EMS for the Billings Fire Department, emphasizes the importance of preventative heart health screening due to his demanding job and family history of heart disease. "My dad had his first heart attack when he was younger than me, and I don't have any uncles because they all passed away by age 50 from heart attacks," Banfield said.

At 45, Banfield sought options to evaluate his risks and consulted with Dr. Carine Basmadjian, a cardiologist at Intermountain Health St. Vincent Regional Hospital. Dr. Basmadjian leads the Prevention and Risk Management Program and stresses early screening. “Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the US,” she stated.

Patients like Banfield can undergo Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) scoring through a rapid CT scan that detects calcified plaque in arteries. This non-invasive test is done every five years to identify individuals at risk before symptoms appear. A study by Intermountain Health found CAC scores effective in predicting heart attack risks.

First responders face higher health risks due to their work environment, according to the Department of Health and Human Services. The American Heart Association notes that half of firefighter deaths in duty are from heart attacks.

Banfield advocates for health awareness among first responders with Dr. Basmadjian's support, highlighting diet, exercise, mental health, CAC scores, medications, or treatments as key factors for longevity. “It's super important that we watch our diet, exercise, and mental health but also know our CAC score and other risks,” he said.

Dr. Basmadjian added: “By identifying those who may be at high risk before they have any negative health impacts, we are able to manage their risks through lifestyle changes.” She values her collaboration with Banfield in promoting first responder health.

Intermountain Health urges those with a family history or risk factors for heart disease to prioritize heart health by scheduling an appointment with a primary care provider or contacting their Prevention and Risk Management Clinic for more information on managing these risks.