According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one person dies of cardiovascular disease every 34 seconds in the United States. In March, Nicholas Brendon became one of the plethora of people claimed annually by the disease, which remains the nation's leading cause of death.
According to a coroner's report reviewed by USA TODAY, the "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" actor, 54, died from atherosclerotic and hypertensive cardiovascular disease. The report also listed previous myocardial infarction (a heart attack) and acute pneumonia as contributing factors in his death, and the manner of death was determined to be natural.
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is caused by plaque buildup in the arterial walls, according to the American Heart Association, which notes ASCVD-related conditions are "the leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally." Brendon had 90% blockage in his right coronary artery, the coroner's report said.
Here's what to know about Brendon's condition, as well as what you can do about your risk for heart disease.
According to Mayo Clinic, atherosclerosis involves the buildup of fats, cholesterol and other substances − also known as plaque − in the arteries. This causes the arteries to narrow, blocking blood flow, creating blood clots and leading to heart attacks and strokes.
