Stable angina is a chronic condition which may persist for years. It affects a significant proportion of the population, and is more common with advancing age. According to the 2006 Health Survey for England, angina affects 8% of men and 3% of women aged 55-64 increasing to 14% and 8% respectively for men and women aged 65-74. Symptoms of angina can be alarming and distressing and it is therefore important that patients understand the underlying problem and what therapies are available to improve or abolish their symptoms.