Final answer:
Coronary Artery Disease occurs when cholesterol and other substances form plaque that narrows the coronary arteries, leading to reduced blood flow and possible heart issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
Coronary Artery Disease and Cholesterol Buildup
With Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), over time, cholesterol builds up in the coronary arteries restricting blood flow to the heart. This disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. It is a condition known as atherosclerosis, where plaque—a fatty substance consisting of cholesterol, connective tissue, white blood cells, and some smooth muscle cells—accumulates within the artery walls. This buildup causes the arteries to become narrow or even blocked, disrupting the delivery of oxygen-rich blood to the heart, a condition known as ischemia, which can lead to chest pain (angina pectoris) or if severe and left untreated, a heart attack (myocardial infarction).
Factors that contribute to atherosclerosis include unhealthy eating habits, high intake of saturated and trans fats, smoking, lack of physical activity, obesity, and diabetes. The plaque buildup not only narrows the arteries but also makes them less flexible, reducing blood flow and potentially leading to severe cardiovascular events.