Angina Overview(Opens in a new browser tab)
Causes and Risk Factors of Angina
Angina is caused by reduced blood flow through the coronary arteries that supply the heart. These causes and risk factors of angina are most often due to atherosclerosis — the buildup of fatty plaques that narrow the arteries and limit oxygen delivery to the heart muscle.
Common Causes of Angina
- Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
- The most frequent cause, due to plaque narrowing the arteries
- Coronary artery spasm
- Sudden tightening of the artery wall (seen in variant angina)
- Severe anaemia
- Low red blood cell count means less oxygen is delivered
- Aortic stenosis
- Narrowing of the aortic valve limits blood leaving the heart
Risk Factors
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- High cholesterol
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Physical inactivity
- Stress
- Unhealthy diet
- Family history of heart disease
- Older age – risk increases after age 45 for men and 55 for women
In South Africa, rising rates of diabetes, obesity, and smoking contribute significantly to the growing burden of angina and heart disease, particularly in urban areas.
Causes and Risk Factors of Angina
Recognising these causes and risks allows for better prevention and targeted management.
