"This kind of negative process puts wear and tear on coronary arteries and in turn produces atherosclerotic lesions. ... Cardiovascular disease, including coronary artery disease (CAD), is responsible for almost half of all deaths in the United States each year (American Heart Association, 1998). ... These hormones raise blood pressure, which can injure the lining of the arteries. When the arteries heal, the walls may harden or thicken, making it easier for plaque to build up. ... Clots may then block an artery narrowed by plaque and cause a heart attack. ...

• Word Count: 1493
• Approx Pages: 6
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: Undergraduate