What condition involves a narrowing of arteries that supply blood to the heart, greatly increasing the risk of a heart attack?

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a condition characterized by the narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries, which are responsible for supplying blood to the heart muscle. This narrowing is often due to the buildup of plaque, a mixture of fat, cholesterol, and other substances, which hardens and restricts blood flow. As a result, when the heart does not receive enough blood, it can lead to chest pain (angina) and ultimately increase the risk of a heart attack.

In contrast, congenital heart defects refer to structural problems with the heart that are present at birth, while congestive heart failure involves the heart's inability to pump effectively, which may result from conditions like CAD but is not a direct cause itself. A coronary artery anomaly typically describes an abnormal structure or position of the coronary arteries that may predispose individuals to various cardiovascular issues, but it does not specifically refer to the narrowing of arteries in the same way CAD does. Understanding CAD is critical for recognizing its role as a leading risk factor for heart attack and for implementing preventative measures.