Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the number one killer of both men and women in America. It occurs when the arteries that take blood to the heart harden and become narrow. This narrowing of the arteries (known as atherosclerosis) cuts off blood flow to the heart muscle, and can cause a heart attack. Among the risk factors for coronary artery disease are having high blood cholesterol, being overweight, and smoking. Many people do not have early symptoms of coronary artery disease. However, some people do experience early symptoms, including dizziness, faster heartbeats, nausea, and chest or arm pain or discomfort (angina), among other things. Fortunately, coronary artery disease is largely preventable. A few steps for effectively preventing coronary artery disease include making lifestyle changes, monitoring your health, and knowing if early coronary artery disease runs in your family.