Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a condition where the coronary arteries become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup. This can lead to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle, potentially causing chest pain, heart attacks, and other complications.
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CAD is primarily caused by atherosclerosis, where plaques made of fat, cholesterol, and other substances build up on artery walls.
Lipoproteins such as LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and HDL (high-density lipoprotein) play critical roles in CAD; high levels of LDL can contribute to plaque formation while high levels of HDL are protective.
Statins are commonly prescribed lipid-lowering drugs that inhibit HMG-CoA reductase to reduce cholesterol synthesis in the liver.
Risk factors for CAD include high cholesterol levels, hypertension, smoking, diabetes, and a sedentary lifestyle.
Lifestyle changes like diet modification and physical activity are essential components in managing and preventing CAD alongside pharmacological treatments.
Review Questions
What role do lipoproteins play in the development of coronary artery disease?
How do statins help in reducing the risk of coronary artery disease?
List at least three risk factors that contribute to coronary artery disease.
Related terms
lipoprotein: Complex particles composed of multiple proteins which transport all fat molecules around the body within water outside cells.
apolipoprotein: The protein component of lipoproteins that helps bind lipids with cell receptors for transport.