Cardiovascular disease
Cardiovascular disease is a broad category involving the heart and blood vessels. It includes coronary disease, stroke, peripheral artery disease, and other conditions.
Understand Heart Disease
Understand the languagebefore the next conversation.
Cardiovascular health is bigger than one diagnosis or one test. A clear vocabulary can make it easier to ask better questions and recognize when care is needed.
Coronary artery disease and atherosclerosis
Coronary artery disease involves the arteries that supply the heart. Atherosclerosis is the buildup and change of plaque in arteries. These terms are related, but they are not interchangeable with every form of cardiovascular disease.
Risk is not destiny
Family history, blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, tobacco exposure, physical activity, diet, sleep, kidney health, and social conditions can all shape cardiovascular health. Many risks can be addressed with appropriate clinical care and sustained support.
One important distinction
Finding plaque is not the same as preventing a heart attack. A test is useful only when it answers an appropriate clinical question and leads to care that fits the person and the result.
Sources and limitations
Start with evidence. Keep the claims precise.
World Health Organization cardiovascular disease fact sheet ↗CDC heart disease facts and statistics ↗American Heart Association Life's Essential 8 ↗
Legacy Heart Health Initiative is a cardiovascular health, prevention, and early-action program in development. This page is not medical advice and does not replace a qualified clinician. If you may be experiencing an emergency, contact local emergency services rather than using this site.