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Stable Coronary Artery Disease

Meaning

Stable Coronary Artery Disease (SCAD) is a chronic, predictable clinical syndrome characterized by the gradual buildup of fixed atherosclerotic plaque within the coronary arteries, which restricts blood flow and results in exertional-related chest pain, known as stable angina. The “stable” designation indicates that the atherosclerotic plaque is fibrous and non-ruptured, and the symptoms occur reliably only when the heart’s oxygen demand exceeds the limited supply capacity. While primarily a cardiovascular diagnosis, SCAD progression is profoundly influenced by endocrine and metabolic dysfunctions, including chronic insulin resistance, systemic inflammation, and the decline of protective sex hormones, which all accelerate the underlying disease process.