Heart Risk Predictor

A blood test that measures levels of NT-proBNP, a protein produced when the heart is under stress, helps diagnose heart failure.

New finding: In people seeking emergency care for shortness of breath, a common symptom of heart failure and heart attack, those with high levels of NT-proBNP were three times more likely to die within one year than those without.

If you suffer from shortness of breath: Ask about getting this test to help determine your long-term prognosis. A clinical trial is underway to evaluate more aggressive drug therapy for patients with high levels of NT-proBNP.