CAD is the leading cause of death in the US and worldwide.

Table of Contents

Asymptomatic Coronary Artery Disease

Watch ▶Atherosclerosis and arteriosclerosis: Pathology review

Watch ▶Coronary artery disease: Pathology review

General

• Caused by gradual narrowing of arteries by atherosclerosis.
• Generally asymptomatic until > 75% stenosis.

Risk Factors

• Smoking (strongest risk factor)
• Obesity, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, CKD
• Increased age (> 45 M / > 55 F)
• Family history of premature CAD ⇒ 1st-degree relative with
• CAD at < 55 years in Males
• CAD at < 65 years Females

Management

• Lifestyle modifications.

  • Smoking cessation (Most important)

  • Regular moderate exercise

  • Weight loss & Healthy diet

    <aside> 💡

    The Mediterranean diet is high in fresh fruits, vegetables, and legumes.

    • It is proven to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in patients both with and without established coronary artery disease. </aside>

• Aspirin + Statin

• Manage comorbidities (eg, HTN, DM, etc..)

• UWT - Risk factors for coronary heart disease (CHD)