What commonly causes coronary artery disease?

Coronary artery disease (CAD) often arises due to the accumulation of fatty deposits, known as plaque, on the walls of the arteries that supply blood to the heart. This process, known as atherosclerosis, narrows the arteries and restricts blood flow, which can lead to serious complications such as heart attacks and angina.

The build-up of these fatty deposits typically occurs over many years and is influenced by various risk factors, including high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, smoking, and diabetes. Therefore, recognizing that fatty deposits on artery walls are a primary cause of coronary artery disease highlights the importance of managing these risk factors to promote heart health.