Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease and remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. It occurs when atherosclerotic plaques build up in the coronary arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart muscle. This chronic condition can lead to serious complications, including angina, heart failure, and acute coronary syndrome. As frontline healthcare providers, nurses play an essential role in preventing, managing, and educating patients with CAD, significantly influencing patient outcomes.

CAD develops over time and is often asymptomatic in its early stages, making early detection and risk factor management critical. Common risk factors include hypertension, diabetes, smoking, hyperlipidemia, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. Nurses are uniquely positioned to identify at-risk individuals, promote regular screening, and provide education on lifestyle modifications, such as healthy eating, exercise, and smoking cessation, which are vital in slowing disease progression.