Many factors can result in premature coronary heart disease. High blood pressure (hypertension) is a common risk factor that is also stongly associated with stroke. While most high blood pressure is related to genetic and environmental factors, high blood pressure, particularly at a younger age, may be related to specific conditions which require treatment.

High cholesterol is another powerful risk factor for coronary disease. Levels and ratios of LDL, HDL Apo_B and Lp(a) can be used better assess cardiovascular risk.

Other risk factors include smoking, diabetes and a sedentary lifestyle.

Coronary artery disease is a major source of illness in our society but with the right care it can be both treated and prevented. Prevention requires a global assessment of nutrition, exercise, lifestyle and traditional risk factors.