Causes
A low supply of oxygen in the heart is most often caused by atherosclerosis, also called "hardening of the arteries." In this condition, fatty deposits called plaques form in the linings of the blood vessels. The plaques make the arteries narrower as they build up, and less blood is able to get through to the heart, depriving it of oxygen.
Atherosclerosis is often the result of too much "bad" cholesterol (low density lipoprotein, or LDL) and triglycerides circulating in the bloodstream.
You are at risk for developing atherosclerosis and CAD if you:
- have high levels of "bad" (LDL) cholesterol
- low levels of "good" (HDL, or high density lipoprotein) cholesterol
- have high blood pressure
- are a smoker
- have diabetes
- lead a sedentary lifestyle
- are overweight (particularly if you are obese in the torso or have a large waist circumference)
- have a family history of heart disease
- consume alcohol excessively
Occasionally, a genetic condition can cause atherosclerosis, leading to heart disease.
Men run a higher risk of developing the disease than premenopausal women. After menopause, the incidence of CAD in women increases, and can be equal to men.