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Coronary artery disease starts when fats, cholesterols and other substances collect on the inner walls of the heart arteries. This condition is called atherosclerosis. The buildup is called plaque. Plaque can cause the arteries to narrow, blocking blood flow. The plaque can also burst, leading to a blood clot.
Besides high cholesterol, damage to the coronary arteries may be caused by:
- Diabetes or insulin resistance
- High blood pressure
- Not getting enough exercise (sedentary lifestyle)
- Smoking or tobacco use
