Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a narrowing of the coronary arteries that supply blood and oxygen to the heart. CAD is the most common form of heart disease, affecting around 17 million Americans. It's the number one killer of both men and women in the U.S.
Unfortunately, many people don't know they have CAD until the disease is fairly advanced. The first sign of the disease is often chest pain (angina) or a heart attack. Even with rapid treatment, advanced CAD can lead to heart failure and arrhythmia (irregular heart beat).
Despite these grim facts, most people can live full and rewarding lives with heart disease. The keys are paying attention to your symptoms, getting good medical care — and taking care of yourself.