Does it matter if I smoke?
Smoking is the leading preventable cause of death among women. According to the American Lung Association, more than 178,000 women die in the United States due to tobacco use each year. Research has also shown that women who smoke are at significantly greater risk of developing heart disease than women who do not.

How quickly does CAD develop?
CAD is a gradual process. First, fatty plaque narrows the coronary arteries. Next, the plaque calcifies, causing the arteries to become harder and stiffer. Untreated, CAD usually continues to worsen.

What sort of diet can I eat to lower my risk of heart disease?
A heart-healthy eating plan includes a wide variety of foods high in complex carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins and minerals. A healthy diet often includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, grains, low-fat or nonfat dairy products, fish, legumes (beans), poultry and lean meats. It is also important to achieve and maintain a healthy body weight by balancing energy intake (calories eaten) with energy needs.