In the United States, heart disease is the top cause of death, and arterial disease is the most prevalent form. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CAD affects approximately 20,1 million persons aged 20 and over (7.2%). In 2020, two out of ten deaths from coronary artery disease will occur in persons younger than 65. Moreover, the CDC estimates that the disease will kill 382,820 people in 2020."
Coronary artery disease (CAD) occurs when the walls of the arteries become clogged with plaque and are unable to execute their role of supplying the heart with sufficient blood, oxygen, and nutrients. Dr. Tomi Mitchell, a Board-Certified Family Physician with Holistic Wellness Strategies, states, "Unfortunately, it is difficult to deny that our society is not structured in a way that promotes health outcomes." "We have transitioned from an era in which physical exercise was necessary for everyday existence and food was obtained through physical hunting and gathering to a modern era in which convenience and speed guide many of our daily decisions. This transition has resulted in an apparent increase in heart disease and chronic disorders among our population."
Dr. Mitchell continues, "While we may comprehend why this occurs, we lack appropriate solutions to address these problems. As a result, it is crucial that we, as a society, address these healthcare consequences head-on and devise a comprehensive plan to solve them. "Coronary artery disease is one of these adverse health outcomes." Read on to learn more about coronary artery disease and its symptoms. Please see your doctor for medical advice.
Understanding Arterial Disease
According to Valay Parikh, MD, a cardiologist at Staten Island University Hospital, coronary artery disease (CAD) is a condition characterized by the blockage of cardiac arteries by fat deposits. It is extremely prevalent. It is no longer a degenerative condition. People develop coronary artery disease at younger ages as a result of lifestyle changes over the previous several decades, with devastating consequences if left untreated.
Dr. Mitchell explains, "Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a life-threatening disorder that happens when plaque builds up in the coronary arteries, narrowing them and reducing blood flow to the heart. People should be aware that coronary artery disease is a silent killer, as it may exhibit little or no signs until a severe blockage has developed. CAD risk factors include high cholesterol, diabetes, abnormal blood pressure, obesity and sedentary lifestyle, smoking, advanced age, a family history of CAD, and excessive alcohol intake. In addition, evidence indicates that maintaining a balanced diet and exercise routine can help reduce the disease's risks and symptoms. Those with a higher risk of developing CAD should regularly check their health and discuss any concerns with their physician.
Risk Factors
According to Dr. Mitchell, coronary artery disease is a dangerous ailment that can result in heart attack, stroke, and other life-threatening illnesses. Those with a strong family history of coronary artery disease, smokers, those with high cholesterol or high blood pressure, those with diabetes or prediabetes, and those who are physically inactive are at the greatest risk of developing coronary artery disease.
Additionally, certain ethnic groups, such as African Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, and Native Americans, are more susceptible to this cardiac condition. One out of every three Americans will acquire coronary artery disease at some point in their lives. Everyone must be aware of their risk factors for this health condition in order to adopt preventative and management measures."
Arterial Disease Is Severe
Dr. Parikh underlines, "CAD is a potentially fatal disorder." Due to obstructions in the coronary arteries of the heart, heart attacks and sudden cardiac death can occur.
Dr. Mitchell states, "Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is an extremely serious medical illness that, if left untreated, can have severe and sometimes fatal effects. CAD is the constriction and hardening of the arteries that feed the heart with blood, making it harder for blood to reach the organ. CAD raises the risk of heart attack, stroke, and even death.
If there is a family history of heart disease or other risk factors such as high cholesterol or hypertension, healthcare professionals strongly advocate taking preventative steps such as a good diet, exercise, stopping smoking, and frequent checkups. Fortunately, CAD can be treated with lifestyle modifications and medications/treatments provided by medical specialists. Early identification and long-term care of coronary artery disease (CAD) patients are essential for preventing additional problems from this disease."
Why Arterial Disease Is So Prevalent
According to Dr. Parikh, CAD is typically caused by hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol. CAD is now more prevalent than in the past due to the rise of these disorders, growing physical and mental stress, and inadequate sleep. CAD can be postponed or avoided by taking care of oneself. The earlier one can make changes, the better they will be for one's total longevity. Among the most frequent alterations that might be made are:
Dr. Mitchell explains, "Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a prevalent illness that affects millions of people annually around the world. It can be caused by an accumulation of cholesterol in the arteries that deliver blood to the heart. Cigarette smoking is also a significant risk factor for coronary artery disease because it constricts blood vessels and decreases blood flow to the heart. Chances of developing coronary artery disease (CAD) are likely to be raised by poor lifestyle choices, such as lack of physical activity, increased fat consumption, and a diet low in fresh fruits and vegetables. As these poor behaviors persist over time, they can gradually cause a buildup of plaque on the artery walls, resulting in a hardening of the arteries, impeding proper circulation throughout the body, and resulting in health issues such as a heart attack or stroke. In some situations, heredity can increase a person's risk for coronary artery disease, but making good lifestyle choices dramatically reduces that risk.