ACSM Risk Stratification Guidelines Quiz

ACSM Risk Stratification Purpose

• The ACSM Risk Stratification is a tool to assess an individual's risk of cardiovascular complications during exercise
• Helps determine the need for medical clearance before engaging in physical activity

Cardiovascular Risk Factor Warranting Medical Clearance

• Known cardiovascular, pulmonary, or metabolic disease is a risk factor that warrants medical clearance before vigorous activities

Moderate Risk Individuals in ACSM Risk Stratification

• Individuals with two or more of the following risk factors are considered moderate risk:
  • Age: Men ≥ 45 years, Women ≥ 55 years
  • Family History: First-degree relative with cardiovascular disease before age 55 years for men and 65 years for women
  • Smoking: Current smoker or quit within the past 6 months
  • Sedentary Lifestyle: Not engaging in at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise on most days of the week
  • Obesity: Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m2
  • Hypertension: Systolic BP ≥ 140 mmHg or Diastolic BP ≥ 90 mmHg
  • Dyslipidemia: LDL ≥ 130 mg/dL or HDL ≤ 40 mg/dL
  • Prediabetes: Fasting glucose ≥ 100 mg/dL or HbA1c ≥ 5.7%

Medical Clearance for Low Risk Individuals

• Medical clearance is generally not required for low-risk individuals, but it is recommended if they have any concerning symptoms or are unsure about their readiness for physical activity

Resting Heart Rate & Blood Pressure Measurement

• Resting heart rate and blood pressure measurements are used to assess the individual's cardiovascular baseline and identify any potential underlying conditions
• These measurements can help determine the intensity and duration of exercise that is safe and appropriate for the individual based on their initial risk stratification level.

Test your knowledge of the ACSM Risk Stratification guidelines with this quiz. Assess your understanding of the categories of low and moderate risk, and the criteria for medical clearance before engaging in physical activities.