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Coronary Atherosclerosis

Coronary Atherosclerosis - Causes and Risk Factors

What causes coronary atherosclerosis?

Though the exact cause of coronary atherosclerosis is unknown, a number of modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors increase a person’s possibility of having it.

What are the risk factors for coronary atherosclerosis?

Modifiable risk factors

High blood pressure (hypertension): High blood pressure can cause damage to the walls of blood vessels, allowing plaque to build up.
High cholesterol: Your total cholesterol levels should be kept as low as possible because any excess cholesterol may be deposited in the arteries. This build-up causes the arteries to harden and narrow, preventing or reducing blood flow to the heart.
Smoking: Nicotine, a chemical found in cigarettes, causes damage to blood vessels and also can cause constriction of vessels.
Diabetes mellitus: Diabetes results in damage of the inner layers of blood vessels, increasing the build-up of plaque.
Obesity: Being overweight can increase one’s risk of coronary atherosclerosis.
Unhealthy diet: Eating foods high in saturated fats can increase the level of cholesterol in the body which causes the build-up of plaque that clog the arteries.
Lack of exercise: An inactive lifestyle is associated with increased risk of coronary atherosclerosis.

Non-modifiable risk factors

Age: Those who are older have a higher risk of developing coronary atherosclerosis.
Genetics: Those with a family history of coronary atherosclerosis are more likely to suffer from this condition.

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Coronary Artery Disease / Coronary Heart Disease,

Article contributed by Department of Cardiology, National Heart Centre Singapore

The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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