# Explain how the build-up of fatty deposits in a coronary artery can lead to a heart attack.

> Pearson Edexcel A-Level Biology A (9BI0) — 1.1 Cardiovascular disease and risk · Explain · 5 marks

> Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United Kingdom. Atherosclerosis, the narrowing of arteries due to the build-up of fatty deposits called plaques, is a key underlying cause.

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Fatty deposits (plaques/atheroma) build up in the wall of the coronary artery, causing the lumen to narrow
2. Reduced blood flow (through the coronary artery) to the heart muscle
3. A blood clot (thrombus) can form at the site of the plaque, which may block the artery completely
4. Less oxygen (and glucose) is delivered to the heart muscle cells
5. Heart muscle cells cannot respire / produce enough energy, causing them to die, resulting in a heart attack

## Key terms

- [coronary artery](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/coronary-artery)
- [heart attack](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/heart-attack)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Pearson Edexcel A-Level Biology A (9BI0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-how-the-build-up-of-fatty-a9ca61b7) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.