Final answer:
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a cardiovascular condition where the heart's arteries are narrowed by fatty deposits, leading to reduced oxygen supply to the heart muscle. It arises from atherosclerosis, the accumulation of plaque, and can result in angina or heart attacks. CAD is a leading cause of death globally.
Step-by-step explanation:
A major form of cardiovascular disease where the arteries that supply the heart muscle are narrowed by fatty deposits such as cholesterol and triglycerides is known as coronary artery disease (CAD) or coronary heart disease (CHD). This condition is part of a group of diseases called atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of plaque within the artery walls. The accumulation of plaque reduces the arteries' diameter, limiting blood flow and leading to potential complications like angina pectoris, myocardial infarction (heart attack), and even sudden death.
Key factors that contribute to CAD include hypertension, obesity, and diabetes, which can exacerbate the development of fatty deposits within the heart's arteries. When the coronary arteries become occluded due to plaque buildup, the tissue becomes ischemic, receiving insufficient oxygen, a state known as hypoxia. If the blockage is not cleared, it can lead to myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack.
Coronary artery disease is one of the leading causes of death worldwide and is noteworthy for its significant impact on health outcomes. Consequently, understanding and managing the risk factors is essential for prevention and treatment of this chronic condition.