Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is characterized by a slowly developed blockage or narrowing of one or more of the coronary arteries which leads to decreased blood flow to the heart, causing lack of oxygen to the heart can cause tissue damage. The narrowing / hardening of the arteries are caused by fatty fibrous plaque build up on the inner walls of the arteries (atherosclerosis).
Risk factors of CAD include: Cigarette smoking, elevated blood pressure, stress, high cholesterol diet, obesity, sedentary life style, Diabetes, Oral contraceptives, Age, Sex (men at increased risk), Race (blacks at increased risk) and Family History.
A person can reduce their risk of CAD by controlling the above noted issues which can be changed or controlled, taking medications as prescribed, exercise regularly and follow-up with your physician on a regular basis.