What is a significant risk factor for the development of coronary artery disease?

Smoking is a significant risk factor for the development of coronary artery disease due to its damaging effects on the cardiovascular system. When a person smokes, the chemicals in tobacco can cause inflammation and damage to blood vessels, leading to the buildup of plaque—a fatty substance that narrows the arteries and restricts blood flow.

Chronic smoking is associated with lower levels of High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "good" cholesterol, which plays a protective role in heart health. Additionally, smoking contributes to the development of other cardiovascular risk factors, such as high blood pressure and insulin resistance, which can exacerbate the risk for coronary artery disease.

While high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol are also significant risk factors, smoking not only contributes directly to these conditions but also independently raises the likelihood of developing coronary artery disease. Understanding the impact of smoking emphasizes the importance of cessation efforts in reducing overall cardiovascular risk and improving heart health.