Atherosclerosis is a chronic condition in which fatty deposits, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances accumulate on the inner walls of arteries, causing narrowing and stiffening of the blood vessels. It develops as a result of a combination of risk factors, including hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and advancing age. Each of these factors contributes to vascular damage and accelerates plaque formation.
- Hypercholesterolemia: Elevated LDL cholesterol promotes the deposition of fatty plaques in arterial walls, restricting blood flow.
- Hypertension: High blood pressure damages the endothelium, making arteries more susceptible to plaque buildup.
- Diabetes: Poorly controlled blood sugar increases vascular inflammation and accelerates atherosclerotic changes.
- Smoking: Nicotine and other toxins harm blood vessels, reduce HDL (“good” cholesterol), and enhance plaque formation.
- Obesity: Excess body fat, particularly abdominal fat, worsens lipid imbalance and promotes vascular dysfunction.
- Age: Arterial elasticity naturally declines with age, facilitating plaque accumulation over time.
Atherosclerosis is the primary underlying cause of coronary artery stenosis (leading to angina or myocardial infarction) and ischemic cerebral vascular occlusion (leading to ischemic stroke). Early detection and management of these risk factors through healthy lifestyle changes and, if necessary, medical treatment are crucial to preventing severe cardiovascular and cerebrovascular complications.
