Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries due to atherosclerotic plaque buildup, reducing blood flow to heart muscle and potentially causing angina, heart attacks, heart failure, or sudden death. Risk factors include age, smoking, high cholesterol, hypertension, diabetes, and family history. Diagnosis may involve stress tests, coronary calcium scoring, CT angiography, or invasive angiography. CAD is one of the most critical conditions in life insurance underwriting because it directly impacts mortality risk, especially when combined with other cardiovascular or metabolic diseases.

Underwriters assess coronary artery disease by reviewing cardiology records, catheterization results, stress tests, ejection fraction measurements, and treatment history, including stents, bypass surgery, and medication regimens. They consider time since last event, symptom control, and lifestyle changes. Advisors working with clients who have CAD gather comprehensive cardiac documentation and set expectations for table ratings or postponements. Some clients may fare better with simplified or graded products. Understanding coronary artery disease enables advisors to discuss heart-health history sensitively while realistically positioning cases with carriers most receptive to cardiac risks.