It narrows the artery, reducing blood flow. Age, gender, heredity, and diet affect cholesterol levels. Refer to section on Cholesterol. Exercise can help decrease other risk factors such as high blood pressure, stress, obesity, and high cholesterol levels. If there is a family history of coronary artery disease, it is more likely that future generations will develop coronary artery disease.
Genetic makeup determines the way the body handles cholesterol and other fats.
Family habits and traits such as eating high-fat meals, smoking, sedentary lifestyle, overweight, hypertension can contribute to the development of heart disease. It negatively affects cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Of those who die, almost four out of five are over 65. Atherosclerosis is part of the aging process, but its progression and severity depend on family history and lifestyle factors. Female hormones protect women in their younger years.