Etiology and Genetic Risk
Atherosclerosis is the primary factor in the development of CAD Numerous risk factors contribute to atherosclerosis and subsequently to CAD ( also see Chapter 38 ).
Nonmodifiable risk factory are personal characteristics that cannot be altered or controlled. These risk factors, which interact with each other, include age, gender, family history, and ethnic background. People with a family history of CAD are at high risk for developing the disease. These factors are discussed in more detail in Chapter 35.