- Myocardial infarction is caused by the sudden blockage of arteries that supply the heart muscle, usually due to atherosclerosis where plaque builds up in the artery walls over time.
- Inflammation plays a key role in weakening the fibrous cap of plaque and increasing the risk of cap rupture, which can lead to complete blockage and a heart attack.
- Lifestyle factors like smoking, obesity, and diabetes can increase inflammation and thus heart attack risk, so reducing or eliminating these risk factors may help lower inflammation.