Coronary artery disease (CAD) or alternatively called atherosclerosis is the leading
cause of death worldwide. There are multiple cardiovascular disease risk factors (CVDRFs),
which are the precursors for CAD. A chronic inflammation prompted by cholesterol-rich
lipoproteins and other noxious CVDRF is central in the pathogenesis of CAD. Endothelial
dysfunction is the first step in the development of CAD. There are many theories in
the development of the atherosclerotic process such as the hygiene theory, genetic
susceptibility, and the endothelial injury. For the modification and management of
CVDRF, the disturbances in lipid and glucose metabolism, hypertension, obesity, and
smoking are the most important targets. The main aim of both primordial and primary
preventions is to prevent the first cardiovascular event rather than preventing the
further myocardial infarction. The prevention should be considered and started early
in childhood and not after the first cardiac event. The primary healthcare physicians,
obstetricians, neonatologists, and pediatricians need to work together on prevention
of CAD early in life and as early as in fetal life.
Key-words:
Cardiovascular disease risk factor - coronary artery disease - endothelial cell dysfunction
- infection - inflammation
