Coronary artery disease affects which part of the body?

Coronary artery disease specifically impacts the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle itself. These arteries are crucial because they deliver the oxygen-rich blood necessary for the heart to function effectively. When these arteries become narrowed or blocked due to a buildup of plaque—a mix of fatty deposits, cholesterol, and other substances—it restricts blood flow, which can lead to chest pain (angina), heart attacks, or other serious cardiac issues.

In contrast, the other options do not represent the primary area affected by coronary artery disease. Branched arteries and veins in the lower limbs pertain to circulatory issues elsewhere in the body, while capillaries are small blood vessels responsible for nutrient and gas exchange at the tissue level. Thus, the correct identification of the arteries of the heart is what directly relates to the implications and risks associated with coronary artery disease.