A new study has found that people with a family history of early signs of coronary artery disease are at higher risk of developing obstructive coronary artery disease and plaque in their arteries.

Researchers analyzed data from more than 8,200 patients who underwent cardiac computed tomography angiography, which is a diagnostic imaging tool that looks at the coronary arteries and evaluates the amount of blockage from plaque.

They found that those with a family history of coronary artery disease (CAD) have a 28 percent chance of developing the disease themselves compared to those with no family history. In addition, family history of CAD was found to be independently associated with an increased prevalence of plaque in the arteries.

Premature coronary artery disease occurs in people 45 and under. As a person ages, the coronary arteries are more likely to narrow and harden, leading to obstructive coronary artery disease, the leading cause of death in the United States for men and women.

Among the ways to prevent or slow the progression of CAD are managing blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes, eating a heart-healthy diet, increasing exercise, reducing stress and quitting smoking. Nutritional supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids and coenzyme Q10 may also help improve overall heart health.