What lifestyle change has the greatest impact on reducing coronary artery disease risk after ACS?

Quitting smoking is considered one of the most significant lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of coronary artery disease, especially following an acute coronary syndrome (ACS) event. Smoking is a major modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, contributing to the development of atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of plaques in the arteries. These plaques can lead to blockages, increasing the risk of heart attacks and other serious cardiovascular complications.

When a person quits smoking, they experience numerous cardiovascular benefits that can lead to improved circulation and reduced heart strain. The risk of coronary artery disease decreases significantly over time, with studies showing that former smokers can reduce their risk to levels similar to those who have never smoked. This reduction in risk is critical after experiencing ACS, as individuals are at a heightened risk for future cardiac events.

In contrast, while increasing physical activity is beneficial for heart health and can lower risk over time, it may not provide the immediate protective effects that smoking cessation offers. Other choices, such as eating more fats or only reducing alcohol consumption, do not directly address the harmful impacts of smoking on the cardiovascular system and may not yield the same level of risk reduction for coronary artery disease. Therefore, quitting smoking stands out as the most effective lifestyle change for reducing the risk of further