Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) represent one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. They include a wide group of disorders affecting the heart and blood vessels, such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and valvular heart diseases. These conditions impose a major burden on healthcare systems and significantly reduce quality of life. Common Types of Heart Diseases 1. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) This disease results from narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries due to atherosclerosis (fatty plaque accumulation), leading to reduced oxygen supply to the heart muscle and possibly causing angina or myocardial infarction. 2. Heart Failure A condition in which the heart is unable to pump sufficient blood to meet the body’s metabolic needs. 3. Cardiac Arrhythmias Abnormalities in heart rhythm, which may be too fast, too slow, or irregular. 4. Valvular Heart Diseases Occur when one or more heart valves do not function properly, affecting blood flow within the heart. Biochemical and Pathophysiological Mechanisms Several biochemical processes play a key role in the development of heart diseases, including: Oxidative stress and accumulation of reactive oxygen species Chronic inflammation within the vascular wall Disturbed lipid metabolism, particularly elevated LDL and reduced HDL Endothelial dysfunction Enhanced blood coagulation and thrombosis These mechanisms contribute to atherosclerosis and progressive damage to cardiac tissue. Major Risk Factors The most important risk factors include: Hypertension Diabetes mellitus Hyperlipidemia Smoking Obesity and physical inactivity Aging and genetic predisposition Diagnosis and Cardiac Biomarkers Diagnosis of heart diseases depends on: Electrocardiography (ECG) Echocardiography Stress testing Coronary angiography Important cardiac biomarkers include: Troponin CK-MB BNP (B-type natriuretic peptide) Prevention and Management Prevention and treatment strategies include: Adopting a healthy diet low in saturated fat and salt Regular physical activity Smoking cessation Good control of blood pressure, blood glucose, and lipid levels Pharmacological therapy such as: Statins Antiplatelet and anticoagulant drugs Antihypertensive medications Conclusion Heart diseases remain a major global health challenge. Understanding their biochemical and pathophysiological basis is essential for early prevention, accurate diagnosis, and effective treatment. A healthy lifestyle combined with regular medical follow-up plays a crucial role in reducing the burden of cardiovascular diseases and improving patient outcomes.