What does cardiovascular disease (CHD) involve?

Cardiovascular disease, particularly coronary heart disease (CHD), involves the build-up of cholesterol in the arteries, which leads to their narrowing. This process, often referred to as atherosclerosis, occurs when fatty deposits, including cholesterol, accumulate on the artery walls. Over time, the narrowing of these arteries restricts blood flow to the heart, which can result in chest pain (angina) or even heart attacks if the flow is significantly blocked. This pathway of artery modification is critical to understanding the risks associated with CHD, correlating directly to lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and smoking habit that can either contribute to or mitigate the condition.