However, women tend to be older and sicker when they are first treated for a heart attack. Coronary heart disease occurs when some of the arteries that carry blood to the heart muscle become narrowed with fatty deposits. In this condition fatty deposits called plaque, composed of cholesterol and fats, build up on the inner wall of the coronary arteries. When arteries are narrowed, the heart is not fully supplied with the oxygen and other nutrients it needs. If an artery is completely blocked, a heart attack occurs.
Heart disease is very common.
It is the leading cause of death in the United States. The tendency to develop heart disease can be genetic. However, certain lifestyle factors such as diet, smoking, and stress make a big difference in whether or not a person will develop heart disease. About 80 percent of people who die from coronary heart disease are age 65 or older. Heredity Children with parents who have heart disease are more likely to develop it themselves.