What is coronary heart disease?
(NewsNation) — Coronary heart disease, also known as CHD, the most common heart disease, occurs when the arteries of the heart carrying oxygen-rich blood are blocked due to buildup known as plaque according to the National Institute of Health.
Plaque is deep deposits of cholesterol and a blockage of blood flow to the heart could lead to a heart attack. CHD is interchangeably referred to as coronary artery disease or ischemic heart disease.
On average, CHD affects 1 in 20 adults over the age of 20 years old. It is not uncommon to be asymptotic until an individual experiences chest pain. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and is sometimes referred to as the silent killer.
In 2022, 371,506 people died due to CHD. The American Heart Association states that the 'average age at the first heart attack was 65.6 years for males and 72.0 years for females.'
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Symptoms of CHD can vary from person to person; however, some warning signs are shortness of breath, chest pain, chest pressure when you are active with an alleviation of symptoms when you rest. If an individual experiences these symptoms, it is best to consult a physician to receive proper medical attention.
Some habits such as tobacco use, and even second-hand smoke could increase a person's risk for heart disease.
The World Health Organization (WHO) said tobacco use is responsible for 20% of deaths linked to heart disease in 2021. The organization explained that if a tobacco user quits smoking for a year, their risk for heart disease is dramatically decreased by 50%.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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