Modifiable cardiovascular risk factors may drive dangerous plaque buildup in coronary arteries

Cardiovascular risk factors are linked to a higher risk of heart disease, but it has been unknown how they are related to abrupt closure of the coronary arteries leading to heart attack and sudden cardiac death.

A study by Mass General Brigham Heart and Vascular Institute investigators finds that people with a greater modifiable risk factor burden, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking and obesity, have more widespread plaque buildup in major coronary arteries. ...