USPSTF Advises against Routine Treadmill Stress Tests in Asymptomatic Adults

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) released in July 2012 its final recommendation on screening for coronary heart disease with electrocardiography (ECG). The group recommended against screening with resting or exercise ECG for the prediction of coronary problems in asymptomatic adults with a low risk for coronary heart disease events. For adults at intermediate or high risk of coronary heart disease events, USPSTF concluded that the current evidence is insufficient to assess the benefits and harms of ECG screening in this population. Using the test for patients at a higher risk of heart disease must be considered on a case-by-case basis, according to USPSTF, and information on risk factors like age, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and lifestyle can help determine whether using an ECG is appropriate.