Coronary Heart Disease (CHD), also known as Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) or Ischemic Heart Disease (IHD), is the most common type of cardiovascular disorder and a leading cause of death worldwide. It occurs when the coronary arteries that supply blood and oxygen to the heart muscle become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of plaque, a process known as atherosclerosis.

The reduced blood flow limits oxygen delivery to the heart, which can lead to chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, arrhythmias, and in severe cases, myocardial infarction (heart attack). CHD often develops silently over many years and may remain undetected until advanced stages.

Key risk factors include hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and family history of heart disease. Early identification and management of these risks play a crucial role in prevention.

Diagnostic approaches such as electrocardiography (ECG), echocardiography, stress testing, coronary angiography, CT scans, and cardiac MRI are widely used to assess disease severity.

Treatment strategies include lifestyle modifications, pharmacological therapy, interventional procedures (angioplasty and stent placement), and coronary artery bypass surgery, depending on disease progression.

Research in preventive cardiology, regenerative therapies, and digital health tools continues to expand opportunities for better management and improved patient outcomes in coronary heart disease.