Final answer:
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is caused by a buildup of plaque in the arteries, leading to restricted blood flow and reduced oxygen supply to the heart's muscle cells. Plaque consists of cholesterol and other substances, which can cause arteries to harden and narrow. Major risk factors include high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, obesity, and high blood cholesterol levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
Causes of Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), also known as atherosclerosis, occurs due to a buildup of plaque in the coronary arteries. This plaque consists of cholesterol, fatty materials, white blood cells, and smooth muscle cells. As plaque accumulates, it leads to the hardening and narrowing of the arteries, causing restrictions in blood flow, a condition known as ischemia. This causes the heart's muscle cells to receive inadequate oxygen, which can manifest as chest pain or symptoms such as angina. Without treatment, CAD can result in serious complications such as myocardial infarction (heart attack) or sudden cardiac death.
Risk factors for developing CAD include high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, lack of exercise, obesity, and high blood cholesterol levels. Lifestyle choices like eating unhealthy fats and lack of physical activity can lead to high LDL (bad) cholesterol, while smoking can lower HDL (good) cholesterol. Obesity and diabetes are also major risk factors, further contributing to the disease's progression.
Therefore, the correct answer to the question is C. A buildup of plaque in the arteries causes Coronary Artery Disease (CAD).