Coronary artery disease (CAD) represents the most prevalent form of cardiovascular disease and stands as the leading cause of death globally, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. According to the American Heart Association, CAD accounts for approximately 655,000 deaths annually in the United States alone, with over 18 million adults currently living with this condition. When coronary arteries become narrowed or blocked by atherosclerosis, this condition arises. The disease often takes decades to develop, starting with problems in the endothelium and ending with plaque accumulation, inflammation, and the risk of rupture. Factors that increase the risk of CAD are high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, obesity, a lack of exercise, as well as being older, a male, or having a family history. Heart disease costs the United States more than $200 billion every year, including both direct expenses for treatment and lost productivity, as well as the deaths of patients.
- Quote paper
- Zeddy Mwale (Author), 2025, Coronary Artery Disease. Pathophysiology, Prevention, and Treatment, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.hausarbeiten.de/document/1682759
