Coronary Artery Disease Causes and Risk Factors: atherosclerosis, hardening of the arteries, plaque build-up | National Heart Centre Singapore
Skip Ribbon Commands
Skip to main content
Menu

Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary Artery Disease - Causes and Risk Factors

Causes

Coronary artery disease is caused by atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries due to old age. In atherosclerosis, plaque build-up in the arteries is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances from the blood.

Plaque build-up in the arteries often begins in childhood. Over time, plaque build-up in the coronary arteries can:

  • Narrow the arteries, reducing the amount of blood and oxygen reaching the heart muscles
  • Block the arteries completely which stops the flow of blood to the heart muscle
  • Cause blood clots to form which can block the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle.

Risk Factors

The risk factors that can contribute to coronary artery disease include:

  • Diabetes mellitus
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Obesity
  • Sedentary lifestyle and a lack of physical activity
  • Smoking


Coronary Artery Disease - Preparing for surgery

Coronary Artery Disease - Post-surgery care

TOP
Discover articles,videos, and guides afrom Singhealth's resources across the web. These information are collated, making healthy living much easier for everyone.