Story #59: Plaque Begets Plaque: Catching the First Wave of Silent Heart Disease

Heart disease often strikes without warning—but new research reveals it may not be as random as we once thought. In this episode, Dr. Kota Reddy shares the gripping story of Chris Hewgill, a healthy 60-year-old surfer whose sudden heart attack uncovers a hidden danger lurking in the arteries: once plaque begins to form, it sets off a chain reaction that accelerates further buildup. Dr. Reddy explains how this self-perpetuating cycle of atherosclerosis challenges the traditional focus on cholesterol alone and highlights the importance of early detection through advanced imaging. With practical tips and hope for future treatments, this conversation offers a powerful reminder that the first signs of heart disease may be the ones we never feel.