What is the Difference Between Coronary Artery Disease and Atherosclerosis?

Coronary artery disease (CAD) and atherosclerosis are related but distinct conditions. Here are the main differences between the two:

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): CAD is a specific type of heart disease that affects the arteries supplying blood to the heart. It is caused by the buildup of plaque in the walls of these arteries, leading to narrowing and, in some cases, blockage of the blood flow. CAD is the most common type of heart disease in the United States and is sometimes called coronary heart disease or ischemic heart disease.
Atherosclerosis: Atherosclerosis is a broader term that refers to the buildup of plaque (made up of fats, cholesterol, and other substances) in the walls of arteries throughout the body. This process can occur in any artery and can lead to various health issues depending on the location of the affected arteries.

In summary, while CAD specifically refers to the narrowing of the arteries supplying the heart, atherosclerosis is the process of plaque buildup in arteries anywhere in the body. Atherosclerosis can lead to CAD when it affects the coronary arteries. Both conditions are caused by plaque buildup, but they differ in the locations affected and the specific consequences they have on the heart.

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What is the Difference Between Coronary Artery Disease and Atherosclerosis?

Comparative Table: Coronary Artery Disease vs Atherosclerosis

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) and Atherosclerosis are related but distinct conditions. Here is a table highlighting the differences between the two:

Feature	Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)	Atherosclerosis
Definition	CAD refers specifically to the narrowing of the arteries that supply the heart with blood.	Atherosclerosis refers to the narrowed arteries anywhere in the body.
Affected Arteries	CAD primarily affects the coronary arteries.	Atherosclerosis can affect arteries throughout the entire body.
Causes	CAD is caused by the buildup of plaque (atheroma) in the coronary arteries, which can lead to blood clots and blockages.	Atherosclerosis is caused by the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can lead to various health issues, including CAD.
Symptoms	CAD can result in angina, heart attacks, and other complications.	Atherosclerosis is a gradual process and may not always show symptoms.
Treatment	Treatment for CAD may include lifestyle changes, medications, and surgical procedures to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.	Treatment for atherosclerosis may include lifestyle changes, medications, and surgical procedures, depending on the severity and location of the plaque buildup.

Both conditions are caused by the buildup of plaque in the arteries, but CAD specifically refers to the narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the heart, while atherosclerosis refers to the general narrowing of arteries throughout the body.

Guilherme Mazui

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.