It’s a confusing and frustrating reality: some people develop coronary artery disease (CAD) even though they eat well, exercise regularly, don’t smoke, and maintain a healthy weight. How can this happen? The truth is, heart health isn’t just about your lifestyle choices. Hidden Coronary Artery Disease risk factors like genetics, inflammation, and even stress can quietly contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries – even in people who seem perfectly healthy.
In this article, we’ll explore the unexpected causes of CAD, why even the healthiest people should consider heart screenings, and how early detection can save lives.
What Is Coronary Artery Disease?
Coronary artery disease (CAD) occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of cholesterol, fat, and other substances—known as plaque. This process is called atherosclerosis.
Over time, plaque can harden or rupture, restricting blood flow and increasing the risk of a heart attack. According to the CDC, CAD is the leading cause of death worldwide.
While traditional risk factors like poor diet, smoking, and lack of exercise are well-known, they don’t tell the whole story.
Learn More: Guide To Coronary Artery Disease In Singapore >>
Hidden Risk Factors Behind Coronary Artery Disease
1) Genetics: The Heart Disease You Inherit
Your genes can significantly influence your heart health. A family history of CAD is one of the strongest risk factors, even if you lead a healthy lifestyle.
According to the American Heart Association, having a parent or sibling with heart disease doubles your risk.
Genetic factors can influence:
- Cholesterol levels: Conditions like familial hypercholesterolemia cause dangerously high LDL (“bad” cholesterol) levels.
- Blood clotting tendencies: Some people are genetically predisposed to form clots more easily.
- Inflammatory responses: Variations in genes can affect how your body responds to inflammation, a key factor in atherosclerosis.
2) Chronic Inflammation: The Silent Heart Wrecker
Chronic inflammation damages the inner lining of the arteries, making it easier for plaque to build up. This inflammation can be caused by:
- Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis increase heart disease risk.
- Uncontrolled diabetes: High blood sugar damages blood vessels.
- Long-term infections: Certain chronic infections have been linked to higher CAD risk.
High levels of C-reactive protein (CRP)—a marker of inflammation—are associated with an increased risk of heart attacks, even in people without traditional risk factors.
3) Hidden High Blood Pressure: The “Silent Killer”
Many people have high blood pressure (hypertension) without knowing it. This condition silently damages the arteries, making them less flexible and more prone to plaque buildup.
Because high blood pressure often has no symptoms, it’s called the “silent killer.” Regular check-ups are key to identifying and managing this hidden risk.
4) Lipoprotein(a): The Cholesterol You Might Have Never Heard Of
Most people are familiar with LDL and HDL cholesterol, but there’s another type you might not know about: Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a).
Elevated Lp(a) levels are largely genetic and are a strong predictor of early heart disease. Unfortunately, standard cholesterol tests don’t measure Lp(a.) A simple blood test can determine your levels.
5) Mental Health & Stress: A Hidden Heart Hazard
Chronic stress, depression, and anxiety aren’t just mental health issues—they can affect your heart too. Stress triggers the release of hormones like cortisol, which raises blood pressure and increases inflammation. High stress levels may significantly increase the risk of heart attacks, even in people without other risk factors.
Why Even Healthy People Need Heart Screenings
Just because you feel healthy doesn’t mean your arteries are. CAD often develops silently for years before symptoms appear. The first sign could be a heart attack.
Key Heart Screening Tests Include:
- Coronary Calcium Score: A CT scan that detects plaque buildup in the arteries.
- Exercise Stress Test: Evaluates how your heart functions under stress.
- Advanced Lipid Panel: Measures cholesterol levels, including Lp(a).
- C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test: Detects inflammation in the body.
Early detection = better outcomes. If you catch CAD early, you can make changes that reduce your risk of a heart attack.
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This article is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.