Where does heart disease rank among the causes of death for women?

Coronary heart disease is the leading cause of death among American women, with stroke being the number-one cause of serious, long-term disability among women.

What causes heart disease?

Coronary heart disease, the most common form of heart disease, develops over many years. It can begin in childhood as a result of a process known as atherosclerosis, in which fatty substances build up inside the walls of blood vessels. Blood components also stick on the inside surface of these same vessel walls.

What happens when these fatty substances and blood components start to build up inside the blood vessel?

This causes the vessels to narrow and "harden," becoming less flexible. The buildup and narrowing proceed gradually. Over time, this can limit blood flow and, eventually, cause symptoms to develop. This buildup or "plaque" may also break open and produce a blood clot that can block a blood vessel.

What happens when the blood flow to the heart is reduced?

Reduced blood flow to the heart can cause chest pain, or angina. If blood flow is nearly or completely blocked, a heart attack can occur, causing muscle in the heart to die. Once damaged, these cells cannot be replaced; the result is permanent heart damage.