The leading cause of death in many countries is a collection of related conditions. Heart disease refers to a range of disorders affecting the heart and the blood vessels that supply it, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and valvular disease.

Atherosclerosis narrows coronary arteries and can precipitate angina or myocardial infarction. Hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and high cholesterol drive much of the risk. Symptoms may be dramatic or silent until a sudden event occurs. Diagnosis uses history, electrocardiography, imaging, and blood tests.

Prevention through lifestyle and risk-factor control is highly effective. Treatment spans medication, interventional procedures, devices, and surgery. Cardiac rehabilitation and secondary prevention reduce recurrent events. Public awareness of warning symptoms improves timely care.

• Group of conditions affecting the heart and its vessels
• Includes coronary disease, failure, rhythm, and valve disorders
• Largely driven by modifiable risk factors
• Managed by prevention, drugs, procedures, and rehabilitation