How does coronary heart disease develop?

Coronary heart disease develops primarily from the blocking of coronary arteries by fatty deposits. This process is known as atherosclerosis, where plaques made of fat, cholesterol, and other substances accumulate on the artery walls. As these deposits build up, they narrow the coronary arteries, decreasing blood flow to the heart muscle. Reduced blood flow can lead to chest pain (angina) and can increase the risk of heart attacks, as the heart may not receive enough oxygen-rich blood.

While factors such as poor diet and lack of exercise can contribute to the risk of developing coronary heart disease, it is the accumulation of fatty deposits that directly leads to the blockage of the coronary arteries, making this the most accurate and specific answer. Other options, like high blood pressure or viral infections, may play a role in cardiovascular health but are not the primary mechanism by which coronary heart disease progresses.