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Abstract
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Heart disease is considered one of the most dangerous and life-threatening long-term illnesses around the world [1]. The condition often stems from the narrowing or obstruction of the coronary arteries, which are responsible for delivering oxygen and blood to the heart. The most common type of heart disease is coronary artery disease (CAD), which can cause symptoms like chest pain, stroke, or a heart attack.
A heart attack happens when the flow of blood to the heart muscle becomes severely reduced or stops entirely. This is usually caused by the slow accumulation and hardening of plaque—made up of cholesterol, fats, and other materials—within the coronary arteries. This process is called atherosclerosis. It becomes life-threatening if the plaque ruptures, prompting a blood clot to form and block blood flow [2]. When such a rupture leads to clotting inside the artery, it’s known as thrombosis, further restricting circulation to the heart. As a result, the affected part of the heart muscle may begin to die. If the clot fully blocks the artery, all tissue beyond that point may suffer severe damage or be destroyed entirely.
A weakened heart is unable to pump blood effectively, a condition known as heart failure. This leads to symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and persistent coughing. As a result, even routine activities—like walking, climbing stairs, or carrying groceries—can become exceedingly difficult for those affected.
Beyond the heart, the risks associated with plaque extend to the brain. When atherosclerotic plaque builds up in the carotid artery, it can restrict blood flow. If the plaque ruptures, tiny fragments and clots may travel through the bloodstream to the brain. These traveling masses, called emboli, can become lodged in smaller cerebral arteries, blocking blood supply to part of the brain and resulting in a stroke.
Identifying individuals at high risk for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and ensuring they receive prompt and appropriate care i
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