Materiały źródłowe

• #1 Arteriosclerosis / atherosclerosis – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arteriosclerosis-atherosclerosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20350569

  Atherosclerosis is the buildup of fats, cholesterol and other substances in and on the artery walls. This buildup is called plaque. The plaque can cause arteries to narrow, blocking blood flow. The plaque also can burst, leading to a blood clot. […] Atherosclerosis is a disease that slowly gets worse. It may begin as early as childhood. The exact cause is not known. It may start with damage or injury to the inner layer of an artery. Artery damage may be caused by: High blood pressure. High cholesterol. High triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood. Smoking or other tobacco use. Diabetes. Insulin resistance. Obesity. Inflammation from an unknown cause or from diseases such as arthritis, lupus, psoriasis or inflammatory bowel disease. […] Once the inner wall of an artery is damaged, blood cells and other substances may collect at the injury site. These substances build up in the inner lining of the artery. […] Over time, fats, cholesterol and other substances also collect on and in the walls of the heart arteries. This buildup is called plaque. Plaque can cause the arteries to narrow. Narrowed arteries can block blood flow. The plaque also can burst, leading to a blood clot.

• #2 Atherosclerosis – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507799/

  Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease in which there is a build up of plaques inside arteries. These plaques are principally composed of lipids that induce an inflammatory reaction causing turbulent flow with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) as a result. […] Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the arteries and is the underlying cause of about 50% of all deaths in westernized society. It is principally a lipid-driven process initiated by the accumulation of low-density lipoprotein and remnant lipoprotein particles and an active inflammatory process in focal areas of arteries particularly at regions of disturbed non-laminar flow at branch points in the arteries and is considered a primary cause of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) resulting in heart attacks, stroke and peripheral arterial disease.

• #3 Atherosclerosis (arteriosclerosis): Causes, symptoms, and more

  https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/247837

  Atherosclerosis happens when arteries become narrow and hard due to a buildup of plaque around the artery wall. […] The plaque that is the cause of atherosclerosis consists of cholesterol, calcium, fat, and other substances, and it can harder over time. […] Smoking, high blood pressure and other factors increase the risk of developing the condition. […] Atherosclerosis happens when the endothelium becomes damaged, due to factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, or high levels of glucose, fat, and cholesterol in the blood. […] This damage allows a collection of substances, known as plaque, to build up in the artery wall. […] Over time, plaque can build up and become hard. […] If plaque continues to collect, it can block the artery and disrupt the flow of blood around the body.

• #4 Atherosclerosis – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atherosclerosis

  Atherosclerosis is a pattern of the disease arteriosclerosis, characterized by development of abnormalities called lesions in walls of arteries. This is a chronic inflammatory disease involving many different cell types and is driven by elevated levels of cholesterol in the blood. The exact cause of atherosclerosis is unknown and is proposed to be multifactorial. Risk factors include abnormal cholesterol levels, elevated levels of inflammatory biomarkers, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking (both active and passive smoking), obesity, genetic factors, family history, lifestyle habits, and an unhealthy diet. […] The narrowing of arteries limits the flow of oxygen-rich blood to parts of the body. […] Genetic factors are also strongly implicated in the disease process; it is unlikely to be entirely based on lifestyle choices.

• #5 Atherosclerosis: Treatment, Symptoms, Causes, Prevention

  https://medconsonline.com/en/blog/atherosclerotic-vascular-disease

  Circulatory disorders can have various origins. It is believed that the predominance of fatty foods in the diet leads to an increase in the level of cholesterol in the blood. Subsequently, it is deposited on the walls of the arteries. As a result, the vessel lumen narrows and the organ supplied with blood begins to lack nutrients, which causes the symptoms of atherosclerosis. […] By origin, several types of atherosclerosis are distinguished: Haemodynamic. It more often develops in the presence of vascular disorders, in particular, hypertension. An inflammatory process on the vessel wall attracts immune cells, resulting in the formation of buildup. Over a long period of time, it increases in size. […] Metabolic. It occurs in connection with metabolic disorders with an increase in the level of low-density lipoproteins in the blood. It has been proved that patients with diabetes mellitus, obesity and sedentary lifestyle have a higher risk of developing this form of atherosclerosis.

• #6 Atherosclerosis – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507799/

  ASCVD is of multifactorial etiology. The most common risk factors include hypercholesterolemia (LDL-cholesterol), hypertension, diabetes mellitus, cigarette smoking, age (male older than 45 years and female older than 55 years), male gender, and strong family history (male relative younger than 55 years and female relative younger than 65 years. Also, a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, diets high in saturated and trans-fatty acids, and certain genetic mutations contribute to risk. […] Many epidemiologic studies in North America and Europe have recognized numerous risk factors for the development and progression of atherosclerosis. They may promote atherosclerosis through their effects on low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles and inflammation.

• #7 Arteriosclerosis / atherosclerosis – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arteriosclerosis-atherosclerosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20350569

  Atherosclerosis is the buildup of fats, cholesterol and other substances in and on the artery walls. This buildup is called plaque. The plaque can cause arteries to narrow, blocking blood flow. The plaque also can burst, leading to a blood clot. […] Atherosclerosis is a disease that slowly gets worse. It may begin as early as childhood. The exact cause is not known. It may start with damage or injury to the inner layer of an artery. Artery damage may be caused by: High blood pressure. High cholesterol. High triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood. Smoking or other tobacco use. Diabetes. Insulin resistance. Obesity. Inflammation from an unknown cause or from diseases such as arthritis, lupus, psoriasis or inflammatory bowel disease. […] Once the inner wall of an artery is damaged, blood cells and other substances may collect at the injury site. These substances build up in the inner lining of the artery. […] Over time, fats, cholesterol and other substances also collect on and in the walls of the heart arteries. This buildup is called plaque. Plaque can cause the arteries to narrow. Narrowed arteries can block blood flow. The plaque also can burst, leading to a blood clot.

• #8 Pathophysiology of Atherosclerosis

  https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/23/6/3346

  Disruption of the mechanisms involved in vascular homeostasis regulation leads to endothelial dysfunction. Briefly, when ECs lose their ability to maintain homeostasis, vessel walls are predisposed to vasoconstriction, lipid infiltration, leukocyte adhesion, platelet activation, and oxidative stress, among other things. Together, these induce an inflammatory response that is considered the first step of atheromatous plaque formation: the fatty streak. […] Hemodynamic forces constitute a local risk factor of atherogenesis, as they promote endothelial dysfunction. […] Atherosclerosis is a disease that is characterized by the accumulation of lipids, fibrous elements, and calcification within the large arteries. This process is initiated by endothelium activation, followed by a cascade of events, which implies the vessel narrowing and activation of inflammatory pathways leading to atheroma plaque formation.

• #9 Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

  https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/what-is-atherosclerosis

  Atherosclerosis can put blood flow at risk as your arteries become blocked, and it can cause clots to form. Its the usual cause of heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease (PAD) — which together are called cardiovascular disease. […] Doctors don’t know exactly how atherosclerosis starts. But it’s believed to begin when the endothelium, the thin layer of cells that lines your arteries, somehow gets damaged. It’s a progressive disease that can begin in childhood. Common causes of damage to the endothelium include: High cholesterol, High blood pressure, Inflammation, like from arthritis or lupus, Obesity or diabetes, Smoking. […] The process of atherosclerosis begins with: Fatty streak. A yellow strip lining the walls of major arteries, fatty streak has been found in children as young as 10. In the fatty streak stage, you feel no symptoms. Fibrous plaque. The second and more dangerous phase of atherosclerosis begins when the cholesterol-containing plaque expands into blood vessels — the bump. Complicated lesion. In the last and most serious stage of atherosclerosis, the plaque begins to break up. This exposes the cholesterol and tissue beneath it, causing unseen but serious harm that your immune system tries to fight off. Blood-clotting cells, which block blood flow, are formed in response. The blood clots, combined with the exposed plaque, create what’s called a complicated lesion.

• #10 Arteriosclerosis / atherosclerosis – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arteriosclerosis-atherosclerosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20350569

  Atherosclerosis is the buildup of fats, cholesterol and other substances in and on the artery walls. This buildup is called plaque. The plaque can cause arteries to narrow, blocking blood flow. The plaque also can burst, leading to a blood clot. […] Atherosclerosis is a disease that slowly gets worse. It may begin as early as childhood. The exact cause is not known. It may start with damage or injury to the inner layer of an artery. Artery damage may be caused by: High blood pressure. High cholesterol. High triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood. Smoking or other tobacco use. Diabetes. Insulin resistance. Obesity. Inflammation from an unknown cause or from diseases such as arthritis, lupus, psoriasis or inflammatory bowel disease. […] Once the inner wall of an artery is damaged, blood cells and other substances may collect at the injury site. These substances build up in the inner lining of the artery. […] Over time, fats, cholesterol and other substances also collect on and in the walls of the heart arteries. This buildup is called plaque. Plaque can cause the arteries to narrow. Narrowed arteries can block blood flow. The plaque also can burst, leading to a blood clot.

• #11 Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

  https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/what-is-atherosclerosis

  Atherosclerosis can put blood flow at risk as your arteries become blocked, and it can cause clots to form. Its the usual cause of heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease (PAD) — which together are called cardiovascular disease. […] Doctors don’t know exactly how atherosclerosis starts. But it’s believed to begin when the endothelium, the thin layer of cells that lines your arteries, somehow gets damaged. It’s a progressive disease that can begin in childhood. Common causes of damage to the endothelium include: High cholesterol, High blood pressure, Inflammation, like from arthritis or lupus, Obesity or diabetes, Smoking. […] The process of atherosclerosis begins with: Fatty streak. A yellow strip lining the walls of major arteries, fatty streak has been found in children as young as 10. In the fatty streak stage, you feel no symptoms. Fibrous plaque. The second and more dangerous phase of atherosclerosis begins when the cholesterol-containing plaque expands into blood vessels — the bump. Complicated lesion. In the last and most serious stage of atherosclerosis, the plaque begins to break up. This exposes the cholesterol and tissue beneath it, causing unseen but serious harm that your immune system tries to fight off. Blood-clotting cells, which block blood flow, are formed in response. The blood clots, combined with the exposed plaque, create what’s called a complicated lesion.

• #12 Atherosclerosis: Symptoms & Causes | NewYork-Presbyterian

  https://www.nyp.org/heart/atherosclerosis

  Atherosclerosis is a common condition characterized by narrowing arteries and a reduced blood supply. […] The cause of atherosclerosis is unknown. It starts with damage or injury to the inner layer of an artery which may be caused by: High blood pressure, High cholesterol, High triglycerides, Smoking, Obesity, Diabetes, Inflammation from diseases including arthritis, lupus, psoriasis or inflammatory bowel disease.

• #13 Arteriosclerosis / atherosclerosis – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arteriosclerosis-atherosclerosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20350569

  Atherosclerosis is the buildup of fats, cholesterol and other substances in and on the artery walls. This buildup is called plaque. The plaque can cause arteries to narrow, blocking blood flow. The plaque also can burst, leading to a blood clot. […] Atherosclerosis is a disease that slowly gets worse. It may begin as early as childhood. The exact cause is not known. It may start with damage or injury to the inner layer of an artery. Artery damage may be caused by: High blood pressure. High cholesterol. High triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood. Smoking or other tobacco use. Diabetes. Insulin resistance. Obesity. Inflammation from an unknown cause or from diseases such as arthritis, lupus, psoriasis or inflammatory bowel disease. […] Once the inner wall of an artery is damaged, blood cells and other substances may collect at the injury site. These substances build up in the inner lining of the artery. […] Over time, fats, cholesterol and other substances also collect on and in the walls of the heart arteries. This buildup is called plaque. Plaque can cause the arteries to narrow. Narrowed arteries can block blood flow. The plaque also can burst, leading to a blood clot.

• #14 Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16753-atherosclerosis-arterial-disease

  Atherosclerosis is the gradual buildup of plaque in the walls of your arteries. […] Researchers believe atherosclerosis causes may include: High LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Tobacco products. High blood pressure. Diabetes. […] These factors can damage your artery’s inner lining (endothelium). This causes atherosclerosis to begin. The damage usually occurs slowly and over time.

• #15 Atherosclerosis – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atherosclerosis

  Atherosclerosis is a pattern of the disease arteriosclerosis, characterized by development of abnormalities called lesions in walls of arteries. This is a chronic inflammatory disease involving many different cell types and is driven by elevated levels of cholesterol in the blood. The exact cause of atherosclerosis is unknown and is proposed to be multifactorial. Risk factors include abnormal cholesterol levels, elevated levels of inflammatory biomarkers, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking (both active and passive smoking), obesity, genetic factors, family history, lifestyle habits, and an unhealthy diet. […] The narrowing of arteries limits the flow of oxygen-rich blood to parts of the body. […] Genetic factors are also strongly implicated in the disease process; it is unlikely to be entirely based on lifestyle choices.

• #16 Atherosclerosis Pathology: Definition, Etiology, Epidemiology

  https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1612610-overview

  Plaque rupture is defined by fibrous cap disruption or fracture, whereby the overlying thrombus is in continuity with the underlying necrotic core. Plaque erosion is identified when serial sectioning through a thrombus fails to show communication with a necrotic core or deep intima; the endothelium is absent, and the thrombus is superimposed on a plaque substrate primarily composed of smooth muscle cells and proteoglycans. […] Studies highlight the role of genetic factors, such as the NEDD4L gene, in modulating vascular inflammation and atherosclerosis plaque stability. Genetic polymorphisms, such as the PCSK9 (rs2149041) polymorphism, are associated with increased carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT), which is a marker of early atherosclerosis.

• #17 Atherosclerosis Pathology: Definition, Etiology, Epidemiology

  https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1612610-overview

  The etiology of atherosclerosis is unknown, but there are multiple factors that contribute to atherosclerotic plaque progression. These include genetic and acquired factors. Processes involved in atherosclerosis include coagulation, inflammation, lipid metabolism, intimal injury, and smooth muscle cell proliferation (see the image below). Genes potentially involved in cardiovascular disease include APOA1, APOA5, APOB, APOC1, APOC2, APOE, CDKN1A, CXCL12, SCARB1, SMARCA4 and TERT. […] Factors that affect these processes may inhibit or accelerate atherosclerosis. The most common risk factors are family history, hyperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus, cigarette smoking, hypertension, and dietary deficiencies of antioxidants. […] A major event in atherosclerotic plaque progression is thrombosis, which may occur in any arterial bed (coronary, aorta, carotid, etc.) Three different morphologies (rupture, erosion, and calcified nodule) may give rise to acute coronary thrombosis. The development of plaque and its rupture are hallmarks of atherosclerotic vascular disease.

• #18 Atherosclerosis – Causes and Risk Factors | NHLBI, NIH

  https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/atherosclerosis/causes

  Risk factors are conditions or habits that make a person more likely to develop a disease. Nearly half of Americans have high blood pressure or unhealthy cholesterol levels, or they smoke. These are key risk factors that can trigger the start of plaque buildup. […] What causes atherosclerosis? Plaque buildup in the arteries starts with damage to the arteries. Risk factors such as unhealthy lifestyle habits, medical conditions, or your genes can cause this damage. […] Some atherosclerosis risk factors can trigger the buildup of plaque in your arteries. Other risk factors can lead to an increase in your blood pressure or cholesterol levels. The more risk factors you have, the higher your risk of complications, including heart attack and stroke, or even disability or death. […] Some common examples of risk factors for atherosclerosis are: Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage the inner layers of the arteries, causing plaque buildup. Family history: Your genes may raise your risk, especially if you have a common inherited cholesterol disorder called familial hypercholesterolemia. This condition affects about 1 in 300 people. High blood pressure: Over time, high blood pressure can damage artery walls, allowing plaque to build up. In the United States, high blood pressure accounts for more deaths linked to atherosclerosis than any other risk factor that you can change. Inflammatory diseases: When you have a condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis, high levels of inflammation can injure your blood vessels, which can lead to plaque buildup. Lack of physical activity: Spending little time moving each day while spending a lot of time in front of screens is linked to unhealthy cholesterol levels that lead to atherosclerosis. Older age: For most people, plaque buildup starts in childhood and gets worse as they get older. In men, the risk increases after age 45. In women, the risk increases after age 55. The risk is even higher for women who have endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome, or if they had gestational diabetes or preeclampsia during a pregnancy. Overweight or obesity: Overweight and obesity raise the risk for heart disease and are linked to many other health problems, including type 2 diabetes and cancer. Nearly 3 in 4 adults ages 20 or older in the United States are either overweight or have obesity. Nearly 1 in 5 children and teens ages 2 to 19 have obesity. Race: Black Americans’ risk of death from heart disease is 30% higher than White Americans’ risk. People of South Asian origin (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) also have a higher heart disease risk. Smoking and secondhand smoke: Almost one-third of deaths caused by coronary heart disease are linked to smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke can cause atherosclerosis-linked disease and stroke. Unhealthy diet: Eating a lot of foods high in fat especially saturated fat can increase your cholesterol levels. Saturated fats are found in meat and dairy products (except nonfat dairy). Also, drinking too much alcohol or binge drinking can raise your total cholesterol level.

• #19 Researchers uncover how a genetic mutation can cause individuals with normal cholesterol levels to develop coronary artery disease at a young age – UTHealth Houston

  https://www.uth.edu/news/story/researchers-uncover-how-a-genetic-mutation-can-cause-individuals-with-normal-cholesterol-levels-to-develop-coronary-artery-disease-at-a-young-age

  A novel molecular pathway to explain how a mutation in the gene ACTA2 can cause individuals in their 30s with normal cholesterol levels and no other risk factors to develop coronary artery disease has been identified, according to researchers with UTHealth Houston. […] It was a surprise to find that people with the gene mutation had too much atherosclerosis at a young age and with no risk factors. […] A 2009 study led by Milewicz found that a number of mutations in ACTA2 predispose humans to develop early onset (30s or younger) coronary artery disease. […] Milewicz and her team found that protein coded by this gene is not folded correctly because of the mutation, and it triggers stress in the smooth muscle cell, which then forces the cell to make more cholesterol internally, regardless of the levels of cholesterol in the blood, driving atherosclerotic plaque formation.

• #20 Atherosclerosis – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atherosclerosis

  Atherosclerosis is a pattern of the disease arteriosclerosis, characterized by development of abnormalities called lesions in walls of arteries. This is a chronic inflammatory disease involving many different cell types and is driven by elevated levels of cholesterol in the blood. The exact cause of atherosclerosis is unknown and is proposed to be multifactorial. Risk factors include abnormal cholesterol levels, elevated levels of inflammatory biomarkers, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking (both active and passive smoking), obesity, genetic factors, family history, lifestyle habits, and an unhealthy diet. […] The narrowing of arteries limits the flow of oxygen-rich blood to parts of the body. […] Genetic factors are also strongly implicated in the disease process; it is unlikely to be entirely based on lifestyle choices.

• #21 Atherosclerosis – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atherosclerosis

  Atherosclerosis generally starts when a person is young and worsens with age. Almost all people are affected to some degree by the age of 65. […] Though it was first described in 1575, there is evidence suggesting that this disease state is genetically inherent in the broader human population, with its origins tracing back to CMAH genetic mutations that may have occurred more than two million years ago during the evolution of hominin ancestors of modern human beings.

• #22 Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

  https://www.healthline.com/health/atherosclerosis

  Atherosclerosis develops slowly and its often related to lifestyle habits, including diet patterns and reduced physical activity. Aging may also be a factor in atherosclerosis, but it doesnt mean significant atherosclerosis always goes hand in hand with aging. […] Chronic high cholesterol is the main contributing factor to atherosclerosis. Cholesterol is found naturally in the body and in certain foods. […] If cholesterol levels in the blood are persistently elevated, it may lead to artery clogging. Over time, cholesterol in the arteries becomes a hard plaque that starts to restrict blood circulation and may damage blood vessels leading to blood clots. […] Other contributing factors for atherosclerosis may include: Family history: If atherosclerosis runs in your family, you may have a higher chance of narrowing of the arteries. You can inherit this condition, as well as other heart-related problems.

• #23 Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes & Risk Factors | Max Hospital

  https://www.maxhealthcare.in/blogs/atherosclerosis-symptoms-and-causes

  Atherosclerosis may develop as a complex interplay of various factors, including: […] High cholesterol: Elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as „bad” cholesterol, can lead to the accumulation of cholesterol in the arterial walls, initiating the process of atherosclerosis. […] High blood pressure (hypertension): High blood pressure can damage the inner lining of arteries (endothelium), making them more susceptible to the buildup of plaque. […] Smoking: Tobacco smoke contains chemicals that damage the endothelium and promote the formation of atherosclerotic plaque. Smoking also contributes to inflammation and increases the risk of blood clot formation. […] Diabetes: Diabetes mellitus, particularly type 2 diabetes, is associated with elevated blood sugar levels, insulin resistance, and inflammation, all of which can accelerate the development of atherosclerosis.

• #24 Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

  https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/what-is-atherosclerosis

  The following can increase your risk of atherosclerosis. These risk factors are behind more than 90% of all heart attacks: Abdominal obesity („spare tire”), Diabetes and insulin resistance, Family history of heart disease, High alcohol intake (more than one to two drinks a day, depending on your size), High blood pressure, High LDL cholesterol, High levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) in your blood, which is a signal of inflammation, High triglycerides, Not eating fruits and vegetables, Not exercising regularly, Sleep apnea, Smoking, Stress. […] A healthy diet and lifestyle and regular checkups can help slow the progress of atherosclerosis. Without these changes, your life expectancy is significantly shortened — 16 years on average with a heart attack, 10 with heart failure, and maybe even more after a stroke. Adopting a healthy lifestyle could add more than a decade to your life.

• #25 Atherosclerosis Symptoms and Causes

  https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-atherosclerosis-1745908

  Atherosclerosis is a chronic, progressive disease in which fatty deposits, called plaque, build up in the walls of arteries. […] The fundamental underlying cause of atherosclerosis has not been fully established. However, many factors that contribute to atherosclerosis have been identified, including: Genetic predisposition the propensity for atherosclerosis clearly runs in families. […] Cholesterol abnormalities high blood levels of LDL cholesterol and low levels of HDL cholesterol are associated with atherosclerosis. […] In Western cultures, arteries commonly show early changes of atherosclerosis even in childhood and adolescence. Atherosclerosis begins as a gradual, progressive disease that commonly will have develops over decades before it ever begins to produce symptoms. […] Atherosclerosis is a condition in which plaque builds up in the walls of arteries. The cause is not entirely understood, but many factors are associated with plaque build-up.

• #26 Atherosclerosis – Cardiovascular Disorders – MSD Manual Professional Edition

  https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/cardiovascular-disorders/arteriosclerosis/atherosclerosis

  There are numerous risk factors for atherosclerosis. Certain factors tend to cluster as the metabolic syndrome. This syndrome includes abdominal obesity, atherogenic dyslipidemia, hypertension, insulin resistance, a prothrombotic state, and a proinflammatory state in sedentary patients. Insulin resistance is not synonymous with the metabolic syndrome but may be key in its etiology. […] Dyslipidemia (high total, high LDL, or low high-density lipoprotein [HDL] cholesterol), hypertension, and diabetes promote atherosclerosis by amplifying or augmenting endothelial dysfunction and inflammatory pathways in vascular endothelium. […] A link between infection and atherosclerosis has been observed, specifically an association between serologic evidence of certain infections (eg, Chlamydia pneumoniae, cytomegalovirus) and coronary artery disease (CAD). […] Several common and rare genetic variants have been robustly associated with atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events. […] The presence of atherosclerotic disease in one vascular territory increases the likelihood of disease in other vascular territories.

• #27 Pathophysiology of Atherosclerosis

  https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/23/6/3346

  Atherosclerosis is the main risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), which is the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Atherosclerosis is initiated by endothelium activation and, followed by a cascade of events (accumulation of lipids, fibrous elements, and calcification), triggers the vessel narrowing and activation of inflammatory pathways. The resultant atheroma plaque, along with these processes, results in cardiovascular complications. […] Atherosclerosis initiates upon endothelial dysfunction accompanied by low-density lipoprotein (LDL) retention and its modification in the intima. Modified LDLs, together with additional atherogenic factors, promote the activation of ECs, leading to monocyte recruitment within the intima. Modified LDLs are avidly captured by differentiated monocytes and VSMC, which promote foam cell formation.

• #28 Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, causes, treatments, and your questions answered.

  https://examine.com/conditions/atherosclerosis/?srsltid=AfmBOorc_uX_3uxKG8jcCZSr0LD8iVoEcsJPcSdKDkNNehQNjRgg0UIr

  Atherosclerosis refers to the buildup of fatty plaque on the interior lining of the arteries the medium- and large-sized blood vessels that carry nutrients and oxygen to tissues throughout the body. The formation of these plaques damage the inside surface of the arteries and leads to more plaque buildup, inflammation, artery hardening and narrowing, and an increased risk of clotting. Severe plaque buildup leads to a wide range of diseases, including coronary artery disease, carotid artery disease (blockage of the arteries feeding into the brain), and peripheral arterial disease (blockage of arteries in the arms, legs, or pelvis). […] Atherosclerosis starts with damage to the interior lining of medium and large arteries, which often occurs in arteries that are under high pressure and tension, a process that can start in childhood. This damage leads to the fats which are mostly in the form of low density lipoprotein (LDL), but can also be carried by other apolipoprotein B-containing lipoproteins being trapped in the interior arterial lining. The more such lipoproteins there are, the more that can get trapped. The fats then get oxidized, which attracts white blood cells mainly macrophages to try to clean up the mess. However, when theres a lot of fat to clean up, the macrophages overdo it and transform into foam cells, which is one of the main ingredients of atherosclerotic plaque formation.

• #29 Atherosclerosis – Causes and Risk Factors | NHLBI, NIH

  https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/atherosclerosis/causes

  Risk factors are conditions or habits that make a person more likely to develop a disease. Nearly half of Americans have high blood pressure or unhealthy cholesterol levels, or they smoke. These are key risk factors that can trigger the start of plaque buildup. […] What causes atherosclerosis? Plaque buildup in the arteries starts with damage to the arteries. Risk factors such as unhealthy lifestyle habits, medical conditions, or your genes can cause this damage. […] Some atherosclerosis risk factors can trigger the buildup of plaque in your arteries. Other risk factors can lead to an increase in your blood pressure or cholesterol levels. The more risk factors you have, the higher your risk of complications, including heart attack and stroke, or even disability or death. […] Some common examples of risk factors for atherosclerosis are: Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage the inner layers of the arteries, causing plaque buildup. Family history: Your genes may raise your risk, especially if you have a common inherited cholesterol disorder called familial hypercholesterolemia. This condition affects about 1 in 300 people. High blood pressure: Over time, high blood pressure can damage artery walls, allowing plaque to build up. In the United States, high blood pressure accounts for more deaths linked to atherosclerosis than any other risk factor that you can change. Inflammatory diseases: When you have a condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis, high levels of inflammation can injure your blood vessels, which can lead to plaque buildup. Lack of physical activity: Spending little time moving each day while spending a lot of time in front of screens is linked to unhealthy cholesterol levels that lead to atherosclerosis. Older age: For most people, plaque buildup starts in childhood and gets worse as they get older. In men, the risk increases after age 45. In women, the risk increases after age 55. The risk is even higher for women who have endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome, or if they had gestational diabetes or preeclampsia during a pregnancy. Overweight or obesity: Overweight and obesity raise the risk for heart disease and are linked to many other health problems, including type 2 diabetes and cancer. Nearly 3 in 4 adults ages 20 or older in the United States are either overweight or have obesity. Nearly 1 in 5 children and teens ages 2 to 19 have obesity. Race: Black Americans’ risk of death from heart disease is 30% higher than White Americans’ risk. People of South Asian origin (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) also have a higher heart disease risk. Smoking and secondhand smoke: Almost one-third of deaths caused by coronary heart disease are linked to smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke can cause atherosclerosis-linked disease and stroke. Unhealthy diet: Eating a lot of foods high in fat especially saturated fat can increase your cholesterol levels. Saturated fats are found in meat and dairy products (except nonfat dairy). Also, drinking too much alcohol or binge drinking can raise your total cholesterol level.

• #30 Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

  https://www.healthline.com/health/atherosclerosis

  Lack of exercise: Regular exercise helps your cardiovascular system, including blood vessels, stay in optimal shape. It keeps your heart muscle strong and encourages oxygen and blood flow throughout your body. Low physical activity increases your chance of a host of medical conditions, including heart disease. […] High blood pressure: Hypertension may damage your blood vessels by making them weak in some areas. […] Smoking: Tobacco products may damage your blood vessels and heart. […] Diabetes: People with diabetes have a much higher incidence of coronary artery disease.

• #31

  https://www.singhealth.com.sg/patient-care/conditions-treatments/coronary-atherosclerosis

  Coronary atherosclerosis is an accumulation of fatty deposits in the coronary artery wall. As coronary atherosclerosis progresses, this leads to gradual narrowing of the coronary arteries that are responsible for supplying nutrient to the muscle of the heart. This is known as coronary artery disease and is often associated with heart attack, heart failure and other cardiac health issues. […] Though the exact cause of coronary atherosclerosis is unknown, a number of modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors increase a persons possibility of having it. […] High blood pressure can cause damage to the walls of blood vessels, allowing plaque to build up. […] Your total cholesterol levels should be kept as low as possible because any excess cholesterol may be deposited in the arteries. This build-up causes the arteries to harden and narrow, preventing or reducing blood flow to the heart.

• #32 Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes & Risk Factors | Max Hospital

  https://www.maxhealthcare.in/blogs/atherosclerosis-symptoms-and-causes

  Atherosclerosis may develop as a complex interplay of various factors, including: […] High cholesterol: Elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as „bad” cholesterol, can lead to the accumulation of cholesterol in the arterial walls, initiating the process of atherosclerosis. […] High blood pressure (hypertension): High blood pressure can damage the inner lining of arteries (endothelium), making them more susceptible to the buildup of plaque. […] Smoking: Tobacco smoke contains chemicals that damage the endothelium and promote the formation of atherosclerotic plaque. Smoking also contributes to inflammation and increases the risk of blood clot formation. […] Diabetes: Diabetes mellitus, particularly type 2 diabetes, is associated with elevated blood sugar levels, insulin resistance, and inflammation, all of which can accelerate the development of atherosclerosis.

• #33 Understanding Atherosclerosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

  https://www.mavenmedicalcenter.com/blog/atherosclerosis-causes-symptoms-treatment

  Atherosclerosis is a complex and very progressive disorder of arteries, which are narrowed and hardened by the plaque that accumulates (it consists mostly out from cholesterol). […] Atherosclerosis is a slow process that typically stems from lifestyle. It is caused by long-term high cholesterol, resulting in the deposition of plaque. Diet and Lifestyle: A high saturated fat diet, sedentary lifestyle and smoking are the major risk factors for developing atherosclerosis. […] High blood Pressure: Hypertension can damage the inner walls of your arteries, causing high-pressure areas that allow additional plaque deposition. […] Diabetes: High levels of sugar in the blood can both damage vessels directly, and promote atherosclerosis as well. […] Family History: Having a family who suffered from heart disease or hardening of the arteries makes you even more prone to developing it. […] Age and Gender: Atherosclerosis tends to be more common in older people and males, though following menopause the risk for women spikes.

• #34 Atherosclerosis – Causes and Risk Factors | NHLBI, NIH

  https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/atherosclerosis/causes

  Risk factors are conditions or habits that make a person more likely to develop a disease. Nearly half of Americans have high blood pressure or unhealthy cholesterol levels, or they smoke. These are key risk factors that can trigger the start of plaque buildup. […] What causes atherosclerosis? Plaque buildup in the arteries starts with damage to the arteries. Risk factors such as unhealthy lifestyle habits, medical conditions, or your genes can cause this damage. […] Some atherosclerosis risk factors can trigger the buildup of plaque in your arteries. Other risk factors can lead to an increase in your blood pressure or cholesterol levels. The more risk factors you have, the higher your risk of complications, including heart attack and stroke, or even disability or death. […] Some common examples of risk factors for atherosclerosis are: Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage the inner layers of the arteries, causing plaque buildup. Family history: Your genes may raise your risk, especially if you have a common inherited cholesterol disorder called familial hypercholesterolemia. This condition affects about 1 in 300 people. High blood pressure: Over time, high blood pressure can damage artery walls, allowing plaque to build up. In the United States, high blood pressure accounts for more deaths linked to atherosclerosis than any other risk factor that you can change. Inflammatory diseases: When you have a condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis, high levels of inflammation can injure your blood vessels, which can lead to plaque buildup. Lack of physical activity: Spending little time moving each day while spending a lot of time in front of screens is linked to unhealthy cholesterol levels that lead to atherosclerosis. Older age: For most people, plaque buildup starts in childhood and gets worse as they get older. In men, the risk increases after age 45. In women, the risk increases after age 55. The risk is even higher for women who have endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome, or if they had gestational diabetes or preeclampsia during a pregnancy. Overweight or obesity: Overweight and obesity raise the risk for heart disease and are linked to many other health problems, including type 2 diabetes and cancer. Nearly 3 in 4 adults ages 20 or older in the United States are either overweight or have obesity. Nearly 1 in 5 children and teens ages 2 to 19 have obesity. Race: Black Americans’ risk of death from heart disease is 30% higher than White Americans’ risk. People of South Asian origin (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) also have a higher heart disease risk. Smoking and secondhand smoke: Almost one-third of deaths caused by coronary heart disease are linked to smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke can cause atherosclerosis-linked disease and stroke. Unhealthy diet: Eating a lot of foods high in fat especially saturated fat can increase your cholesterol levels. Saturated fats are found in meat and dairy products (except nonfat dairy). Also, drinking too much alcohol or binge drinking can raise your total cholesterol level.

• #35 Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

  https://www.healthline.com/health/atherosclerosis

  Lack of exercise: Regular exercise helps your cardiovascular system, including blood vessels, stay in optimal shape. It keeps your heart muscle strong and encourages oxygen and blood flow throughout your body. Low physical activity increases your chance of a host of medical conditions, including heart disease. […] High blood pressure: Hypertension may damage your blood vessels by making them weak in some areas. […] Smoking: Tobacco products may damage your blood vessels and heart. […] Diabetes: People with diabetes have a much higher incidence of coronary artery disease.

• #36 Atherosclerosis – Heart and Blood Vessel Disorders – Merck Manual Consumer Version

  https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/heart-and-blood-vessel-disorders/atherosclerosis/atherosclerosis

  People who have diabetes mellitus tend to develop disease that affects small arteries, such as those in the eyes, nerves, and kidneys, leading to vision loss, nerve damage, and chronic kidney disease. […] Obesity, particularly abdominal (truncal) obesity, increases the risk of coronary artery disease (atherosclerosis of the arteries that supply blood to the heart). […] Physical inactivity appears to increase the risk of developing coronary artery disease, and much evidence suggests that regular exercise even to a moderate degree reduces this risk and decreases mortality. […] There is substantial evidence that regular vegetable and fruit consumption can decrease the risk of coronary artery disease. […] Eating a healthy diet can help decrease the risk of atherosclerosis.

• #37 Atherosclerosis – Causes and Risk Factors | NHLBI, NIH

  https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/atherosclerosis/causes

  Risk factors are conditions or habits that make a person more likely to develop a disease. Nearly half of Americans have high blood pressure or unhealthy cholesterol levels, or they smoke. These are key risk factors that can trigger the start of plaque buildup. […] What causes atherosclerosis? Plaque buildup in the arteries starts with damage to the arteries. Risk factors such as unhealthy lifestyle habits, medical conditions, or your genes can cause this damage. […] Some atherosclerosis risk factors can trigger the buildup of plaque in your arteries. Other risk factors can lead to an increase in your blood pressure or cholesterol levels. The more risk factors you have, the higher your risk of complications, including heart attack and stroke, or even disability or death. […] Some common examples of risk factors for atherosclerosis are: Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage the inner layers of the arteries, causing plaque buildup. Family history: Your genes may raise your risk, especially if you have a common inherited cholesterol disorder called familial hypercholesterolemia. This condition affects about 1 in 300 people. High blood pressure: Over time, high blood pressure can damage artery walls, allowing plaque to build up. In the United States, high blood pressure accounts for more deaths linked to atherosclerosis than any other risk factor that you can change. Inflammatory diseases: When you have a condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis, high levels of inflammation can injure your blood vessels, which can lead to plaque buildup. Lack of physical activity: Spending little time moving each day while spending a lot of time in front of screens is linked to unhealthy cholesterol levels that lead to atherosclerosis. Older age: For most people, plaque buildup starts in childhood and gets worse as they get older. In men, the risk increases after age 45. In women, the risk increases after age 55. The risk is even higher for women who have endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome, or if they had gestational diabetes or preeclampsia during a pregnancy. Overweight or obesity: Overweight and obesity raise the risk for heart disease and are linked to many other health problems, including type 2 diabetes and cancer. Nearly 3 in 4 adults ages 20 or older in the United States are either overweight or have obesity. Nearly 1 in 5 children and teens ages 2 to 19 have obesity. Race: Black Americans’ risk of death from heart disease is 30% higher than White Americans’ risk. People of South Asian origin (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) also have a higher heart disease risk. Smoking and secondhand smoke: Almost one-third of deaths caused by coronary heart disease are linked to smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke can cause atherosclerosis-linked disease and stroke. Unhealthy diet: Eating a lot of foods high in fat especially saturated fat can increase your cholesterol levels. Saturated fats are found in meat and dairy products (except nonfat dairy). Also, drinking too much alcohol or binge drinking can raise your total cholesterol level.

• #38

  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronary-heart-disease/causes/

  Coronary heart disease (CHD) is usually caused by a build-up of fatty deposits (atheroma) on the walls of the arteries around the heart (coronary arteries). […] This process is called atherosclerosis. […] Your risk of developing atherosclerosis is significantly increased if you: […] Other risk factors for developing atherosclerosis include: […] Like cholesterol, lipoprotein (a), also known as LP(a), is a combination of fat and protein made by the liver. It’s a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease and atherosclerosis. […] Diabetes can lead to CHD because it may cause the lining of blood vessels to become thicker, which can restrict blood flow.

• #39 Understanding Atherosclerosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

  https://www.mavenmedicalcenter.com/blog/atherosclerosis-causes-symptoms-treatment

  Atherosclerosis is a complex and very progressive disorder of arteries, which are narrowed and hardened by the plaque that accumulates (it consists mostly out from cholesterol). […] Atherosclerosis is a slow process that typically stems from lifestyle. It is caused by long-term high cholesterol, resulting in the deposition of plaque. Diet and Lifestyle: A high saturated fat diet, sedentary lifestyle and smoking are the major risk factors for developing atherosclerosis. […] High blood Pressure: Hypertension can damage the inner walls of your arteries, causing high-pressure areas that allow additional plaque deposition. […] Diabetes: High levels of sugar in the blood can both damage vessels directly, and promote atherosclerosis as well. […] Family History: Having a family who suffered from heart disease or hardening of the arteries makes you even more prone to developing it. […] Age and Gender: Atherosclerosis tends to be more common in older people and males, though following menopause the risk for women spikes.

• #40 Atherosclerosis – Cardiovascular Disorders – MSD Manual Professional Edition

  https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/cardiovascular-disorders/arteriosclerosis/atherosclerosis

  There are numerous risk factors for atherosclerosis. Certain factors tend to cluster as the metabolic syndrome. This syndrome includes abdominal obesity, atherogenic dyslipidemia, hypertension, insulin resistance, a prothrombotic state, and a proinflammatory state in sedentary patients. Insulin resistance is not synonymous with the metabolic syndrome but may be key in its etiology. […] Dyslipidemia (high total, high LDL, or low high-density lipoprotein [HDL] cholesterol), hypertension, and diabetes promote atherosclerosis by amplifying or augmenting endothelial dysfunction and inflammatory pathways in vascular endothelium. […] A link between infection and atherosclerosis has been observed, specifically an association between serologic evidence of certain infections (eg, Chlamydia pneumoniae, cytomegalovirus) and coronary artery disease (CAD). […] Several common and rare genetic variants have been robustly associated with atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events. […] The presence of atherosclerotic disease in one vascular territory increases the likelihood of disease in other vascular territories.

• #41 Atherosclerosis – Causes and Risk Factors | NHLBI, NIH

  https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/atherosclerosis/causes

  Risk factors are conditions or habits that make a person more likely to develop a disease. Nearly half of Americans have high blood pressure or unhealthy cholesterol levels, or they smoke. These are key risk factors that can trigger the start of plaque buildup. […] What causes atherosclerosis? Plaque buildup in the arteries starts with damage to the arteries. Risk factors such as unhealthy lifestyle habits, medical conditions, or your genes can cause this damage. […] Some atherosclerosis risk factors can trigger the buildup of plaque in your arteries. Other risk factors can lead to an increase in your blood pressure or cholesterol levels. The more risk factors you have, the higher your risk of complications, including heart attack and stroke, or even disability or death. […] Some common examples of risk factors for atherosclerosis are: Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage the inner layers of the arteries, causing plaque buildup. Family history: Your genes may raise your risk, especially if you have a common inherited cholesterol disorder called familial hypercholesterolemia. This condition affects about 1 in 300 people. High blood pressure: Over time, high blood pressure can damage artery walls, allowing plaque to build up. In the United States, high blood pressure accounts for more deaths linked to atherosclerosis than any other risk factor that you can change. Inflammatory diseases: When you have a condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis, high levels of inflammation can injure your blood vessels, which can lead to plaque buildup. Lack of physical activity: Spending little time moving each day while spending a lot of time in front of screens is linked to unhealthy cholesterol levels that lead to atherosclerosis. Older age: For most people, plaque buildup starts in childhood and gets worse as they get older. In men, the risk increases after age 45. In women, the risk increases after age 55. The risk is even higher for women who have endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome, or if they had gestational diabetes or preeclampsia during a pregnancy. Overweight or obesity: Overweight and obesity raise the risk for heart disease and are linked to many other health problems, including type 2 diabetes and cancer. Nearly 3 in 4 adults ages 20 or older in the United States are either overweight or have obesity. Nearly 1 in 5 children and teens ages 2 to 19 have obesity. Race: Black Americans’ risk of death from heart disease is 30% higher than White Americans’ risk. People of South Asian origin (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) also have a higher heart disease risk. Smoking and secondhand smoke: Almost one-third of deaths caused by coronary heart disease are linked to smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke can cause atherosclerosis-linked disease and stroke. Unhealthy diet: Eating a lot of foods high in fat especially saturated fat can increase your cholesterol levels. Saturated fats are found in meat and dairy products (except nonfat dairy). Also, drinking too much alcohol or binge drinking can raise your total cholesterol level.

• #42 What is Atherosclerosis? | American Heart Association

  https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol/about-cholesterol/atherosclerosis

  Plaque buildup, or fatty deposits, in your arteries is called atherosclerosis. These deposits are made up of cholesterol, fatty substances, cellular waste products, calcium and fibrin, a clotting material in the blood. […] Many scientists believe plaque begins when an artery’s inner lining becomes damaged. Four possible causes of such damage are: Elevated levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood, High blood pressure, Tobacco smoking, such as cigarettes, Diabetes. […] Smoking plays a big role in the progression of atherosclerosis in the aorta (the body’s main artery), coronary arteries and arteries in the legs. Smoking makes fatty deposits more likely to form, and it speeds up the growth of plaque.

• #43

  https://www.singhealth.com.sg/patient-care/conditions-treatments/coronary-atherosclerosis

  Nicotine, a chemical found in cigarettes, causes damage to blood vessels and also can cause constriction of vessels. […] Diabetes results in damage of the inner layers of blood vessels, increasing the build-up of plaque. […] Being overweight can increase ones risk of coronary atherosclerosis. […] Eating foods high in saturated fats can increase the level of cholesterol in the body which causes the build-up of plaque that clog the arteries. […] An inactive lifestyle is associated with increased risk of coronary atherosclerosis. […] Those who are older have a higher risk of developing coronary atherosclerosis. […] Those with a family history of coronary atherosclerosis are more likely to suffer from this condition.

• #44 Atherosclerosis and Stroke | American Stroke Association

  https://www.stroke.org/en/about-stroke/stroke-risk-factors/atherosclerosis-and-stroke

  Often referred to as hardening of the arteries, atherosclerosis can lead to heart disease and stroke. […] Atherosclerosis usually affects large and medium-sized arteries. It starts when the inner lining of an artery (the endothelium) is damaged. This damage may occur from physical stress, such as high blood pressure. High blood cholesterol or high blood sugar and inflammation driven by the immune system may also cause artery damage. […] Males and people with a family history of premature cardiovascular disease have an increased risk of atherosclerosis. Other risk factors include: High blood pressure: Damages the lining of blood vessels, making them susceptible to atherosclerosis. High blood cholesterol and triglycerides. Diabetes mellitus. Cigarette smoking and exposure to tobacco smoke (the chemicals in cigarettes can cause damage to blood vessels, speeding up the process of plaque buildup). Unhealthy eating habits. Older age: In men, the risk increases after age 45; in women the risk increases after the age 55. Family history. Physical inactivity.

• #45 What is Atherosclerosis? | American Heart Association

  https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol/about-cholesterol/atherosclerosis

  Plaque buildup, or fatty deposits, in your arteries is called atherosclerosis. These deposits are made up of cholesterol, fatty substances, cellular waste products, calcium and fibrin, a clotting material in the blood. […] Many scientists believe plaque begins when an artery’s inner lining becomes damaged. Four possible causes of such damage are: Elevated levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood, High blood pressure, Tobacco smoking, such as cigarettes, Diabetes. […] Smoking plays a big role in the progression of atherosclerosis in the aorta (the body’s main artery), coronary arteries and arteries in the legs. Smoking makes fatty deposits more likely to form, and it speeds up the growth of plaque.

• #46 Atherosclerosis – Causes and Risk Factors | NHLBI, NIH

  https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/atherosclerosis/causes

  Risk factors are conditions or habits that make a person more likely to develop a disease. Nearly half of Americans have high blood pressure or unhealthy cholesterol levels, or they smoke. These are key risk factors that can trigger the start of plaque buildup. […] What causes atherosclerosis? Plaque buildup in the arteries starts with damage to the arteries. Risk factors such as unhealthy lifestyle habits, medical conditions, or your genes can cause this damage. […] Some atherosclerosis risk factors can trigger the buildup of plaque in your arteries. Other risk factors can lead to an increase in your blood pressure or cholesterol levels. The more risk factors you have, the higher your risk of complications, including heart attack and stroke, or even disability or death. […] Some common examples of risk factors for atherosclerosis are: Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage the inner layers of the arteries, causing plaque buildup. Family history: Your genes may raise your risk, especially if you have a common inherited cholesterol disorder called familial hypercholesterolemia. This condition affects about 1 in 300 people. High blood pressure: Over time, high blood pressure can damage artery walls, allowing plaque to build up. In the United States, high blood pressure accounts for more deaths linked to atherosclerosis than any other risk factor that you can change. Inflammatory diseases: When you have a condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis, high levels of inflammation can injure your blood vessels, which can lead to plaque buildup. Lack of physical activity: Spending little time moving each day while spending a lot of time in front of screens is linked to unhealthy cholesterol levels that lead to atherosclerosis. Older age: For most people, plaque buildup starts in childhood and gets worse as they get older. In men, the risk increases after age 45. In women, the risk increases after age 55. The risk is even higher for women who have endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome, or if they had gestational diabetes or preeclampsia during a pregnancy. Overweight or obesity: Overweight and obesity raise the risk for heart disease and are linked to many other health problems, including type 2 diabetes and cancer. Nearly 3 in 4 adults ages 20 or older in the United States are either overweight or have obesity. Nearly 1 in 5 children and teens ages 2 to 19 have obesity. Race: Black Americans’ risk of death from heart disease is 30% higher than White Americans’ risk. People of South Asian origin (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) also have a higher heart disease risk. Smoking and secondhand smoke: Almost one-third of deaths caused by coronary heart disease are linked to smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke can cause atherosclerosis-linked disease and stroke. Unhealthy diet: Eating a lot of foods high in fat especially saturated fat can increase your cholesterol levels. Saturated fats are found in meat and dairy products (except nonfat dairy). Also, drinking too much alcohol or binge drinking can raise your total cholesterol level.

• #47 Atherosclerosis – Causes and Risk Factors | NHLBI, NIH

  https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/atherosclerosis/causes

  Risk factors are conditions or habits that make a person more likely to develop a disease. Nearly half of Americans have high blood pressure or unhealthy cholesterol levels, or they smoke. These are key risk factors that can trigger the start of plaque buildup. […] What causes atherosclerosis? Plaque buildup in the arteries starts with damage to the arteries. Risk factors such as unhealthy lifestyle habits, medical conditions, or your genes can cause this damage. […] Some atherosclerosis risk factors can trigger the buildup of plaque in your arteries. Other risk factors can lead to an increase in your blood pressure or cholesterol levels. The more risk factors you have, the higher your risk of complications, including heart attack and stroke, or even disability or death. […] Some common examples of risk factors for atherosclerosis are: Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage the inner layers of the arteries, causing plaque buildup. Family history: Your genes may raise your risk, especially if you have a common inherited cholesterol disorder called familial hypercholesterolemia. This condition affects about 1 in 300 people. High blood pressure: Over time, high blood pressure can damage artery walls, allowing plaque to build up. In the United States, high blood pressure accounts for more deaths linked to atherosclerosis than any other risk factor that you can change. Inflammatory diseases: When you have a condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis, high levels of inflammation can injure your blood vessels, which can lead to plaque buildup. Lack of physical activity: Spending little time moving each day while spending a lot of time in front of screens is linked to unhealthy cholesterol levels that lead to atherosclerosis. Older age: For most people, plaque buildup starts in childhood and gets worse as they get older. In men, the risk increases after age 45. In women, the risk increases after age 55. The risk is even higher for women who have endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome, or if they had gestational diabetes or preeclampsia during a pregnancy. Overweight or obesity: Overweight and obesity raise the risk for heart disease and are linked to many other health problems, including type 2 diabetes and cancer. Nearly 3 in 4 adults ages 20 or older in the United States are either overweight or have obesity. Nearly 1 in 5 children and teens ages 2 to 19 have obesity. Race: Black Americans’ risk of death from heart disease is 30% higher than White Americans’ risk. People of South Asian origin (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) also have a higher heart disease risk. Smoking and secondhand smoke: Almost one-third of deaths caused by coronary heart disease are linked to smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke can cause atherosclerosis-linked disease and stroke. Unhealthy diet: Eating a lot of foods high in fat especially saturated fat can increase your cholesterol levels. Saturated fats are found in meat and dairy products (except nonfat dairy). Also, drinking too much alcohol or binge drinking can raise your total cholesterol level.

• #48 Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes & Risk Factors | Max Hospital

  https://www.maxhealthcare.in/blogs/atherosclerosis-symptoms-and-causes

  Obesity and unhealthy diet: Being overweight or obese, particularly with excess abdominal fat, increases the risk of atherosclerosis. A diet high in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, and refined carbohydrates can contribute to elevated cholesterol levels and atherosclerotic plaque formation. […] Physical inactivity: Lack of regular physical activity is associated with numerous risk factors for atherosclerosis, including obesity, high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, and insulin resistance. […] Family history and genetics: A family history of atherosclerosis or cardiovascular disease increases the risk of developing the condition. Genetic factors may influence cholesterol metabolism, blood clotting tendencies, and other processes involved in atherosclerosis. […] Age and gender: Atherosclerosis becomes more common with advancing age, as arterial walls become less flexible and more prone to damage. Men tend to develop atherosclerosis at a younger age than women, although the risk for women increases after menopause.

• #49 Atherosclerosis – Heart and Blood Vessel Disorders – Merck Manual Consumer Version

  https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/heart-and-blood-vessel-disorders/atherosclerosis/atherosclerosis

  People who have diabetes mellitus tend to develop disease that affects small arteries, such as those in the eyes, nerves, and kidneys, leading to vision loss, nerve damage, and chronic kidney disease. […] Obesity, particularly abdominal (truncal) obesity, increases the risk of coronary artery disease (atherosclerosis of the arteries that supply blood to the heart). […] Physical inactivity appears to increase the risk of developing coronary artery disease, and much evidence suggests that regular exercise even to a moderate degree reduces this risk and decreases mortality. […] There is substantial evidence that regular vegetable and fruit consumption can decrease the risk of coronary artery disease. […] Eating a healthy diet can help decrease the risk of atherosclerosis.

• #50 Looking for atherosclerosis’ root cause | Children’s National

  https://innovationdistrict.childrensnational.org/looking-for-atherosclerosis-root-cause/

  Cholesterol plaque in artery […] Atherosclerosis causes blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood throughout the body to become inflamed. White blood cells called macrophages settle in the vessel wall, which becomes overloaded with cholesterol. A plaque forms that restricts blood flow. […] Fat isnt just tissue. It can be thought of as a metabolic organ capable of communicating with types of cells that predispose someone to develop atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death around the world. […] Their collaborative effort builds on previous research that found microRNA derived from fat cells becomes pathologically altered by obesity, a phenomenon reversed by weight-loss surgery. […] Its still an open question whether young people who are healthy can tolerate obesityor whether there are specific differences in fat tissue composition that up kids risk for heart disease. […] Ultimately, we hope to learn which properties belonging to adipose tissue EVs make them friendly or unfriendly to the heart, and we hope that gaining that knowledge will help us decrease morbidity and mortality from heart disease across the lifespan.

• #51 Looking for atherosclerosis’ root cause | Children’s National

  https://innovationdistrict.childrensnational.org/looking-for-atherosclerosis-root-cause/

  Cholesterol plaque in artery […] Atherosclerosis causes blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood throughout the body to become inflamed. White blood cells called macrophages settle in the vessel wall, which becomes overloaded with cholesterol. A plaque forms that restricts blood flow. […] Fat isnt just tissue. It can be thought of as a metabolic organ capable of communicating with types of cells that predispose someone to develop atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death around the world. […] Their collaborative effort builds on previous research that found microRNA derived from fat cells becomes pathologically altered by obesity, a phenomenon reversed by weight-loss surgery. […] Its still an open question whether young people who are healthy can tolerate obesityor whether there are specific differences in fat tissue composition that up kids risk for heart disease. […] Ultimately, we hope to learn which properties belonging to adipose tissue EVs make them friendly or unfriendly to the heart, and we hope that gaining that knowledge will help us decrease morbidity and mortality from heart disease across the lifespan.

• #52 Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

  https://www.healthline.com/health/atherosclerosis

  Lack of exercise: Regular exercise helps your cardiovascular system, including blood vessels, stay in optimal shape. It keeps your heart muscle strong and encourages oxygen and blood flow throughout your body. Low physical activity increases your chance of a host of medical conditions, including heart disease. […] High blood pressure: Hypertension may damage your blood vessels by making them weak in some areas. […] Smoking: Tobacco products may damage your blood vessels and heart. […] Diabetes: People with diabetes have a much higher incidence of coronary artery disease.

• #53 Atherosclerosis – Heart and Blood Vessel Disorders – Merck Manual Consumer Version

  https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/heart-and-blood-vessel-disorders/atherosclerosis/atherosclerosis

  People who have diabetes mellitus tend to develop disease that affects small arteries, such as those in the eyes, nerves, and kidneys, leading to vision loss, nerve damage, and chronic kidney disease. […] Obesity, particularly abdominal (truncal) obesity, increases the risk of coronary artery disease (atherosclerosis of the arteries that supply blood to the heart). […] Physical inactivity appears to increase the risk of developing coronary artery disease, and much evidence suggests that regular exercise even to a moderate degree reduces this risk and decreases mortality. […] There is substantial evidence that regular vegetable and fruit consumption can decrease the risk of coronary artery disease. […] Eating a healthy diet can help decrease the risk of atherosclerosis.

• #54 Atherosclerosis – Causes and Risk Factors | NHLBI, NIH

  https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/atherosclerosis/causes

  Risk factors are conditions or habits that make a person more likely to develop a disease. Nearly half of Americans have high blood pressure or unhealthy cholesterol levels, or they smoke. These are key risk factors that can trigger the start of plaque buildup. […] What causes atherosclerosis? Plaque buildup in the arteries starts with damage to the arteries. Risk factors such as unhealthy lifestyle habits, medical conditions, or your genes can cause this damage. […] Some atherosclerosis risk factors can trigger the buildup of plaque in your arteries. Other risk factors can lead to an increase in your blood pressure or cholesterol levels. The more risk factors you have, the higher your risk of complications, including heart attack and stroke, or even disability or death. […] Some common examples of risk factors for atherosclerosis are: Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage the inner layers of the arteries, causing plaque buildup. Family history: Your genes may raise your risk, especially if you have a common inherited cholesterol disorder called familial hypercholesterolemia. This condition affects about 1 in 300 people. High blood pressure: Over time, high blood pressure can damage artery walls, allowing plaque to build up. In the United States, high blood pressure accounts for more deaths linked to atherosclerosis than any other risk factor that you can change. Inflammatory diseases: When you have a condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis, high levels of inflammation can injure your blood vessels, which can lead to plaque buildup. Lack of physical activity: Spending little time moving each day while spending a lot of time in front of screens is linked to unhealthy cholesterol levels that lead to atherosclerosis. Older age: For most people, plaque buildup starts in childhood and gets worse as they get older. In men, the risk increases after age 45. In women, the risk increases after age 55. The risk is even higher for women who have endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome, or if they had gestational diabetes or preeclampsia during a pregnancy. Overweight or obesity: Overweight and obesity raise the risk for heart disease and are linked to many other health problems, including type 2 diabetes and cancer. Nearly 3 in 4 adults ages 20 or older in the United States are either overweight or have obesity. Nearly 1 in 5 children and teens ages 2 to 19 have obesity. Race: Black Americans’ risk of death from heart disease is 30% higher than White Americans’ risk. People of South Asian origin (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) also have a higher heart disease risk. Smoking and secondhand smoke: Almost one-third of deaths caused by coronary heart disease are linked to smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke can cause atherosclerosis-linked disease and stroke. Unhealthy diet: Eating a lot of foods high in fat especially saturated fat can increase your cholesterol levels. Saturated fats are found in meat and dairy products (except nonfat dairy). Also, drinking too much alcohol or binge drinking can raise your total cholesterol level.

• #55 Atherosclerosis > Fact Sheets > Yale Medicine

  https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/atherosclerosis

  Atherosclerosis is a disease of the arteries in which plaque buildup causes them to narrow and stiffen, leading to serious health complications. […] Experts aren’t sure exactly what causes plaques to form, but that formation is a slow process that usually takes place over many years. It begins when the inner wall of an artery becomes damaged by high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high cholesterol, smoking, or other mechanisms. As the body tries to repair the damaged artery walls, various substances (fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood) combine to form plaques. […] Risk factors for atherosclerosis include: Smoking and tobacco use, Overweight or obesity, High blood pressure, Physical inactivity, Diabetes, High cholesterol (high LDL cholesterol), Family history of atherosclerosis, Excessive alcohol consumption, Unhealthy diet high in saturated and trans fats, salt, and sugar, Older age.

• #56 Atherosclerosis: causes and risk factors • HRI

  https://www.hri.org.au/health/learn/cardiovascular-disease/atherosclerosis-causes-and-risk-factors

  Atherosclerosis is the main underlying cause of cardiovascular disease. […] Atherosclerosis is a complex process, often starting in childhood and progressing with age. While the exact cause of atherosclerosis is not known, it may start with damage or injury to the inner layer of an artery. It is linked to certain risk factors, including a family history of CVD and increasing age, which cannot be changed. A higher risk also affects those with the following risk factors that can be managed or changed. […] Smoking can damage the arteries and increase the risk of atherosclerosis. […] Simple lifestyle changes can help to manage and prevent atherosclerosis, such as leading an active lifestyle to help maintain a healthy weight.

• #57 Atherosclerosis – Heart and Blood Vessel Disorders – Merck Manual Consumer Version

  https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/heart-and-blood-vessel-disorders/atherosclerosis/atherosclerosis

  People who have diabetes mellitus tend to develop disease that affects small arteries, such as those in the eyes, nerves, and kidneys, leading to vision loss, nerve damage, and chronic kidney disease. […] Obesity, particularly abdominal (truncal) obesity, increases the risk of coronary artery disease (atherosclerosis of the arteries that supply blood to the heart). […] Physical inactivity appears to increase the risk of developing coronary artery disease, and much evidence suggests that regular exercise even to a moderate degree reduces this risk and decreases mortality. […] There is substantial evidence that regular vegetable and fruit consumption can decrease the risk of coronary artery disease. […] Eating a healthy diet can help decrease the risk of atherosclerosis.

• #58 Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, causes, treatments, and your questions answered.

  https://examine.com/conditions/atherosclerosis/?srsltid=AfmBOorc_uX_3uxKG8jcCZSr0LD8iVoEcsJPcSdKDkNNehQNjRgg0UIr

  Diet plays a huge role in atherosclerosis through impacting many of its associated risk factors, such as obesity, high cholesterol, high blood-pressure, and diabetes. Recent guidelines cite strong evidence that weight loss in people with overweight or obesity can reduce atherosclerotic disease risk. Theres also strong evidence that a diet high in fruits and vegetables, legumes, nuts, whole grains, and fish can reduce the risk for diseases caused by atherosclerosis. Weaker evidence suggests that swapping out saturated fat with mono- or polyunsaturated fats and minimizing processed meats and refined carbohydrates can also help.

• #59 Atherosclerosis – Causes and Risk Factors | NHLBI, NIH

  https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/atherosclerosis/causes

  Risk factors are conditions or habits that make a person more likely to develop a disease. Nearly half of Americans have high blood pressure or unhealthy cholesterol levels, or they smoke. These are key risk factors that can trigger the start of plaque buildup. […] What causes atherosclerosis? Plaque buildup in the arteries starts with damage to the arteries. Risk factors such as unhealthy lifestyle habits, medical conditions, or your genes can cause this damage. […] Some atherosclerosis risk factors can trigger the buildup of plaque in your arteries. Other risk factors can lead to an increase in your blood pressure or cholesterol levels. The more risk factors you have, the higher your risk of complications, including heart attack and stroke, or even disability or death. […] Some common examples of risk factors for atherosclerosis are: Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage the inner layers of the arteries, causing plaque buildup. Family history: Your genes may raise your risk, especially if you have a common inherited cholesterol disorder called familial hypercholesterolemia. This condition affects about 1 in 300 people. High blood pressure: Over time, high blood pressure can damage artery walls, allowing plaque to build up. In the United States, high blood pressure accounts for more deaths linked to atherosclerosis than any other risk factor that you can change. Inflammatory diseases: When you have a condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis, high levels of inflammation can injure your blood vessels, which can lead to plaque buildup. Lack of physical activity: Spending little time moving each day while spending a lot of time in front of screens is linked to unhealthy cholesterol levels that lead to atherosclerosis. Older age: For most people, plaque buildup starts in childhood and gets worse as they get older. In men, the risk increases after age 45. In women, the risk increases after age 55. The risk is even higher for women who have endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome, or if they had gestational diabetes or preeclampsia during a pregnancy. Overweight or obesity: Overweight and obesity raise the risk for heart disease and are linked to many other health problems, including type 2 diabetes and cancer. Nearly 3 in 4 adults ages 20 or older in the United States are either overweight or have obesity. Nearly 1 in 5 children and teens ages 2 to 19 have obesity. Race: Black Americans’ risk of death from heart disease is 30% higher than White Americans’ risk. People of South Asian origin (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) also have a higher heart disease risk. Smoking and secondhand smoke: Almost one-third of deaths caused by coronary heart disease are linked to smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke can cause atherosclerosis-linked disease and stroke. Unhealthy diet: Eating a lot of foods high in fat especially saturated fat can increase your cholesterol levels. Saturated fats are found in meat and dairy products (except nonfat dairy). Also, drinking too much alcohol or binge drinking can raise your total cholesterol level.

• #60 Atherosclerosis: MedlinePlus Medical EncyclopediaLock

  https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000171.htm

  Atherosclerosis, sometimes called „hardening of the arteries,” occurs when fat, cholesterol, and other substances build up in the walls of arteries. These deposits are called plaques. Over time, these plaques can narrow or completely block the arteries and cause problems throughout the body. […] Atherosclerosis often occurs with aging. As you grow older, plaque buildup narrows your arteries and makes them stiffer. These changes make it harder for blood to flow through them. […] High blood cholesterol levels can cause hardening of the arteries at a younger age. […] For many people, high cholesterol levels are due to a diet that is too high in saturated fats and trans fats. […] Other factors that can contribute to hardening of the arteries include: Diabetes, Family history of hardening of the arteries, High blood pressure, Lack of exercise, Being overweight or obese, Smoking.

• #61 What Causes Heart Disease I: Atherosclerosis and Arteriosclerosis | South Denver Cardiology

  https://southdenver.com/causes-heart-disease-atherosclerosis-arteriosclerosis/

  Atherosclerosis is the most common form of cardiovascular disease and is often caused by an unhealthy diet, lack of exercise and smoking. […] The more frequently this occurs, the more likely you are of developing coronary heart disease. […] Smoking and a lack of exercise have also been known to cause these buildups. […] A high-fiber, low-fat diet is incredibly helpful at lowering LDL levels.

• #62 Atherosclerosis – Heart and Blood Vessel Disorders – Merck Manual Consumer Version

  https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/heart-and-blood-vessel-disorders/atherosclerosis/atherosclerosis

  People who have diabetes mellitus tend to develop disease that affects small arteries, such as those in the eyes, nerves, and kidneys, leading to vision loss, nerve damage, and chronic kidney disease. […] Obesity, particularly abdominal (truncal) obesity, increases the risk of coronary artery disease (atherosclerosis of the arteries that supply blood to the heart). […] Physical inactivity appears to increase the risk of developing coronary artery disease, and much evidence suggests that regular exercise even to a moderate degree reduces this risk and decreases mortality. […] There is substantial evidence that regular vegetable and fruit consumption can decrease the risk of coronary artery disease. […] Eating a healthy diet can help decrease the risk of atherosclerosis.

• #63 Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, causes, treatments, and your questions answered.

  https://examine.com/conditions/atherosclerosis/?srsltid=AfmBOorc_uX_3uxKG8jcCZSr0LD8iVoEcsJPcSdKDkNNehQNjRgg0UIr

  Diet plays a huge role in atherosclerosis through impacting many of its associated risk factors, such as obesity, high cholesterol, high blood-pressure, and diabetes. Recent guidelines cite strong evidence that weight loss in people with overweight or obesity can reduce atherosclerotic disease risk. Theres also strong evidence that a diet high in fruits and vegetables, legumes, nuts, whole grains, and fish can reduce the risk for diseases caused by atherosclerosis. Weaker evidence suggests that swapping out saturated fat with mono- or polyunsaturated fats and minimizing processed meats and refined carbohydrates can also help.

• #64 Atherosclerosis – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507799/

  Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease in which there is a build up of plaques inside arteries. These plaques are principally composed of lipids that induce an inflammatory reaction causing turbulent flow with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) as a result. […] Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the arteries and is the underlying cause of about 50% of all deaths in westernized society. It is principally a lipid-driven process initiated by the accumulation of low-density lipoprotein and remnant lipoprotein particles and an active inflammatory process in focal areas of arteries particularly at regions of disturbed non-laminar flow at branch points in the arteries and is considered a primary cause of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) resulting in heart attacks, stroke and peripheral arterial disease.

• #65 Pathophysiology of Atherosclerosis

  https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/23/6/3346

  Endothelial dysfunction also plays a remarkable role in subsequent steps of atherosclerosis by participating in plaque development and in its rupture in the last steps of atherosclerosis. Therefore, an increased endothelial dysfunction is considered an early indicator of atherogenesis. […] Cholesterol accumulation is considered a hallmark of atherosclerotic lesions. […] The necrotic core constitutes the nucleus of the atherosclerotic plaques. Covered by the fibrous cap, the necrotic core consists of a lipid-laden hipocellular region with reduced supporting collagen. […] Atheroma plaque calcification is another hallmark of advanced atherosclerosis. It exists as a bone-like formation within the plaque and is initiated in inflammatory regions with a local decrease in collagen fibers. […] The fibrous cap separates the thrombogenic necrotic core from the circulating coagulation factors and platelets, and its thickness correlates with the vulnerability of the plaque. […] Inflammation contributes to plaque development in all of the steps from initiation to plaque rupture. Indeed, in this last stage, its relevance is remarkable, as it promotes the instability of the fibrous cap.

• #66 Atherosclerosis – Causes and Risk Factors | NHLBI, NIH

  https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/atherosclerosis/causes

  Risk factors are conditions or habits that make a person more likely to develop a disease. Nearly half of Americans have high blood pressure or unhealthy cholesterol levels, or they smoke. These are key risk factors that can trigger the start of plaque buildup. […] What causes atherosclerosis? Plaque buildup in the arteries starts with damage to the arteries. Risk factors such as unhealthy lifestyle habits, medical conditions, or your genes can cause this damage. […] Some atherosclerosis risk factors can trigger the buildup of plaque in your arteries. Other risk factors can lead to an increase in your blood pressure or cholesterol levels. The more risk factors you have, the higher your risk of complications, including heart attack and stroke, or even disability or death. […] Some common examples of risk factors for atherosclerosis are: Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage the inner layers of the arteries, causing plaque buildup. Family history: Your genes may raise your risk, especially if you have a common inherited cholesterol disorder called familial hypercholesterolemia. This condition affects about 1 in 300 people. High blood pressure: Over time, high blood pressure can damage artery walls, allowing plaque to build up. In the United States, high blood pressure accounts for more deaths linked to atherosclerosis than any other risk factor that you can change. Inflammatory diseases: When you have a condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis, high levels of inflammation can injure your blood vessels, which can lead to plaque buildup. Lack of physical activity: Spending little time moving each day while spending a lot of time in front of screens is linked to unhealthy cholesterol levels that lead to atherosclerosis. Older age: For most people, plaque buildup starts in childhood and gets worse as they get older. In men, the risk increases after age 45. In women, the risk increases after age 55. The risk is even higher for women who have endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome, or if they had gestational diabetes or preeclampsia during a pregnancy. Overweight or obesity: Overweight and obesity raise the risk for heart disease and are linked to many other health problems, including type 2 diabetes and cancer. Nearly 3 in 4 adults ages 20 or older in the United States are either overweight or have obesity. Nearly 1 in 5 children and teens ages 2 to 19 have obesity. Race: Black Americans’ risk of death from heart disease is 30% higher than White Americans’ risk. People of South Asian origin (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) also have a higher heart disease risk. Smoking and secondhand smoke: Almost one-third of deaths caused by coronary heart disease are linked to smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke can cause atherosclerosis-linked disease and stroke. Unhealthy diet: Eating a lot of foods high in fat especially saturated fat can increase your cholesterol levels. Saturated fats are found in meat and dairy products (except nonfat dairy). Also, drinking too much alcohol or binge drinking can raise your total cholesterol level.

• #67 Arteriosclerosis / atherosclerosis – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arteriosclerosis-atherosclerosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20350569

  Atherosclerosis is the buildup of fats, cholesterol and other substances in and on the artery walls. This buildup is called plaque. The plaque can cause arteries to narrow, blocking blood flow. The plaque also can burst, leading to a blood clot. […] Atherosclerosis is a disease that slowly gets worse. It may begin as early as childhood. The exact cause is not known. It may start with damage or injury to the inner layer of an artery. Artery damage may be caused by: High blood pressure. High cholesterol. High triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood. Smoking or other tobacco use. Diabetes. Insulin resistance. Obesity. Inflammation from an unknown cause or from diseases such as arthritis, lupus, psoriasis or inflammatory bowel disease. […] Once the inner wall of an artery is damaged, blood cells and other substances may collect at the injury site. These substances build up in the inner lining of the artery. […] Over time, fats, cholesterol and other substances also collect on and in the walls of the heart arteries. This buildup is called plaque. Plaque can cause the arteries to narrow. Narrowed arteries can block blood flow. The plaque also can burst, leading to a blood clot.

• #68 Atherosclerosis (arteriosclerosis): Causes, symptoms, and more

  https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/247837

  Sometimes, pieces of plaque break open. […] Atherosclerosis can affect any artery, but it mainly occurs in the larger, high pressure arteries. […] People with a higher risk of atherosclerosis include those with: diabetes or insulin resistance, a family history of cardiovascular disease, a history of tobacco smoking, high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or bad cholesterol, low physical activity levels, older age, a diet high in saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, salt, and sugar, high blood pressure, obesity, high levels of triglycerides in the blood, stress, high alcohol intake, sleep apnea. […] Recent evidence indicates that inflammation may play a role.

• #69 Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

  https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/what-is-atherosclerosis

  The following can increase your risk of atherosclerosis. These risk factors are behind more than 90% of all heart attacks: Abdominal obesity („spare tire”), Diabetes and insulin resistance, Family history of heart disease, High alcohol intake (more than one to two drinks a day, depending on your size), High blood pressure, High LDL cholesterol, High levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) in your blood, which is a signal of inflammation, High triglycerides, Not eating fruits and vegetables, Not exercising regularly, Sleep apnea, Smoking, Stress. […] A healthy diet and lifestyle and regular checkups can help slow the progress of atherosclerosis. Without these changes, your life expectancy is significantly shortened — 16 years on average with a heart attack, 10 with heart failure, and maybe even more after a stroke. Adopting a healthy lifestyle could add more than a decade to your life.

• #70 Cardiothoracic Surgery – Atherosclerosis

  https://adultctsurgery.ucsf.edu/patient/patient-education/atherosclerosis.aspx

  Studies show that an increasing number of children and youth are at risk for atherosclerosis. This is due to a number of causes, including rising childhood obesity rates. […] High levels of a protein called C-reactive protein (CRP) in the blood may raise the risk for atherosclerosis and heart attack. High levels of CRP are a sign of inflammation in the body. […] Other factors also may raise your risk for atherosclerosis, such as: Sleep apnea, Stress, Alcohol.

• #71 Atherosclerosis | Nature Reviews Disease Primers

  https://www.nature.com/articles/s41572-019-0106-z

  Atherosclerosis, the formation of fibrofatty lesions in the artery wall, causes much morbidity and mortality worldwide, including most myocardial infarctions and many strokes, as well as disabling peripheral artery disease. […] Development of atherosclerotic lesions probably requires low-density lipoprotein, a particle that carries cholesterol through the blood. Other risk factors for atherosclerosis and its thrombotic complications include hypertension, cigarette smoking and diabetes mellitus. […] Increasing evidence also points to a role of the immune system, as emerging risk factors include inflammation and clonal haematopoiesis. […] Studies of the cell and molecular biology of atherogenesis have provided considerable insight into the mechanisms that link all these risk factors to atheroma development and the clinical manifestations of this disease.

• #72 Atherosclerosis – Heart and Blood Vessel Disorders – Merck Manual Consumer Version

  https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/heart-and-blood-vessel-disorders/atherosclerosis/atherosclerosis

  Atherosclerosis is caused by repeated injury to the walls of arteries. […] Many factors contribute to this injury, including high blood pressure, tobacco smoke, diabetes, and high levels of cholesterol in the blood. […] The development of atherosclerosis is complicated, but the primary event seems to be repeated, subtle injury to the artery’s inner lining (endothelium), through various mechanisms. […] Infections with a few types of bacteria or viruses (such as Helicobacter pylori or cytomegalovirus) may also increase inflammation in the artery’s inner lining (endothelium) and lead to atherosclerosis. […] A high level of LDL cholesterol is another important modifiable risk factor. […] Uncontrolled high blood pressure is a risk factor for heart attack and stroke, which are caused by atherosclerosis.

• #73 Atherosclerosis – Cardiovascular Disorders – MSD Manual Professional Edition

  https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/cardiovascular-disorders/arteriosclerosis/atherosclerosis

  There are numerous risk factors for atherosclerosis. Certain factors tend to cluster as the metabolic syndrome. This syndrome includes abdominal obesity, atherogenic dyslipidemia, hypertension, insulin resistance, a prothrombotic state, and a proinflammatory state in sedentary patients. Insulin resistance is not synonymous with the metabolic syndrome but may be key in its etiology. […] Dyslipidemia (high total, high LDL, or low high-density lipoprotein [HDL] cholesterol), hypertension, and diabetes promote atherosclerosis by amplifying or augmenting endothelial dysfunction and inflammatory pathways in vascular endothelium. […] A link between infection and atherosclerosis has been observed, specifically an association between serologic evidence of certain infections (eg, Chlamydia pneumoniae, cytomegalovirus) and coronary artery disease (CAD). […] Several common and rare genetic variants have been robustly associated with atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events. […] The presence of atherosclerotic disease in one vascular territory increases the likelihood of disease in other vascular territories.

• #74 Atherosclerosis: MedlinePlus Medical EncyclopediaLock

  https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000171.htm

  Atherosclerosis, sometimes called „hardening of the arteries,” occurs when fat, cholesterol, and other substances build up in the walls of arteries. These deposits are called plaques. Over time, these plaques can narrow or completely block the arteries and cause problems throughout the body. […] Atherosclerosis often occurs with aging. As you grow older, plaque buildup narrows your arteries and makes them stiffer. These changes make it harder for blood to flow through them. […] High blood cholesterol levels can cause hardening of the arteries at a younger age. […] For many people, high cholesterol levels are due to a diet that is too high in saturated fats and trans fats. […] Other factors that can contribute to hardening of the arteries include: Diabetes, Family history of hardening of the arteries, High blood pressure, Lack of exercise, Being overweight or obese, Smoking.

• #75 Atherosclerosis – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atherosclerosis

  Atherosclerosis generally starts when a person is young and worsens with age. Almost all people are affected to some degree by the age of 65. […] Though it was first described in 1575, there is evidence suggesting that this disease state is genetically inherent in the broader human population, with its origins tracing back to CMAH genetic mutations that may have occurred more than two million years ago during the evolution of hominin ancestors of modern human beings.

• #76 Atherosclerosis – Causes and Risk Factors | NHLBI, NIH

  https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/atherosclerosis/causes

  Risk factors are conditions or habits that make a person more likely to develop a disease. Nearly half of Americans have high blood pressure or unhealthy cholesterol levels, or they smoke. These are key risk factors that can trigger the start of plaque buildup. […] What causes atherosclerosis? Plaque buildup in the arteries starts with damage to the arteries. Risk factors such as unhealthy lifestyle habits, medical conditions, or your genes can cause this damage. […] Some atherosclerosis risk factors can trigger the buildup of plaque in your arteries. Other risk factors can lead to an increase in your blood pressure or cholesterol levels. The more risk factors you have, the higher your risk of complications, including heart attack and stroke, or even disability or death. […] Some common examples of risk factors for atherosclerosis are: Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage the inner layers of the arteries, causing plaque buildup. Family history: Your genes may raise your risk, especially if you have a common inherited cholesterol disorder called familial hypercholesterolemia. This condition affects about 1 in 300 people. High blood pressure: Over time, high blood pressure can damage artery walls, allowing plaque to build up. In the United States, high blood pressure accounts for more deaths linked to atherosclerosis than any other risk factor that you can change. Inflammatory diseases: When you have a condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis, high levels of inflammation can injure your blood vessels, which can lead to plaque buildup. Lack of physical activity: Spending little time moving each day while spending a lot of time in front of screens is linked to unhealthy cholesterol levels that lead to atherosclerosis. Older age: For most people, plaque buildup starts in childhood and gets worse as they get older. In men, the risk increases after age 45. In women, the risk increases after age 55. The risk is even higher for women who have endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome, or if they had gestational diabetes or preeclampsia during a pregnancy. Overweight or obesity: Overweight and obesity raise the risk for heart disease and are linked to many other health problems, including type 2 diabetes and cancer. Nearly 3 in 4 adults ages 20 or older in the United States are either overweight or have obesity. Nearly 1 in 5 children and teens ages 2 to 19 have obesity. Race: Black Americans’ risk of death from heart disease is 30% higher than White Americans’ risk. People of South Asian origin (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) also have a higher heart disease risk. Smoking and secondhand smoke: Almost one-third of deaths caused by coronary heart disease are linked to smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke can cause atherosclerosis-linked disease and stroke. Unhealthy diet: Eating a lot of foods high in fat especially saturated fat can increase your cholesterol levels. Saturated fats are found in meat and dairy products (except nonfat dairy). Also, drinking too much alcohol or binge drinking can raise your total cholesterol level.

• #77 Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes & Risk Factors | Max Hospital

  https://www.maxhealthcare.in/blogs/atherosclerosis-symptoms-and-causes

  Obesity and unhealthy diet: Being overweight or obese, particularly with excess abdominal fat, increases the risk of atherosclerosis. A diet high in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, and refined carbohydrates can contribute to elevated cholesterol levels and atherosclerotic plaque formation. […] Physical inactivity: Lack of regular physical activity is associated with numerous risk factors for atherosclerosis, including obesity, high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, and insulin resistance. […] Family history and genetics: A family history of atherosclerosis or cardiovascular disease increases the risk of developing the condition. Genetic factors may influence cholesterol metabolism, blood clotting tendencies, and other processes involved in atherosclerosis. […] Age and gender: Atherosclerosis becomes more common with advancing age, as arterial walls become less flexible and more prone to damage. Men tend to develop atherosclerosis at a younger age than women, although the risk for women increases after menopause.

• #78 Atherosclerosis – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atherosclerosis

  Atherosclerosis generally starts when a person is young and worsens with age. Almost all people are affected to some degree by the age of 65. […] Though it was first described in 1575, there is evidence suggesting that this disease state is genetically inherent in the broader human population, with its origins tracing back to CMAH genetic mutations that may have occurred more than two million years ago during the evolution of hominin ancestors of modern human beings.

• #79 Atherosclerosis – Causes and Risk Factors | NHLBI, NIH

  https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/atherosclerosis/causes

  Risk factors are conditions or habits that make a person more likely to develop a disease. Nearly half of Americans have high blood pressure or unhealthy cholesterol levels, or they smoke. These are key risk factors that can trigger the start of plaque buildup. […] What causes atherosclerosis? Plaque buildup in the arteries starts with damage to the arteries. Risk factors such as unhealthy lifestyle habits, medical conditions, or your genes can cause this damage. […] Some atherosclerosis risk factors can trigger the buildup of plaque in your arteries. Other risk factors can lead to an increase in your blood pressure or cholesterol levels. The more risk factors you have, the higher your risk of complications, including heart attack and stroke, or even disability or death. […] Some common examples of risk factors for atherosclerosis are: Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage the inner layers of the arteries, causing plaque buildup. Family history: Your genes may raise your risk, especially if you have a common inherited cholesterol disorder called familial hypercholesterolemia. This condition affects about 1 in 300 people. High blood pressure: Over time, high blood pressure can damage artery walls, allowing plaque to build up. In the United States, high blood pressure accounts for more deaths linked to atherosclerosis than any other risk factor that you can change. Inflammatory diseases: When you have a condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis, high levels of inflammation can injure your blood vessels, which can lead to plaque buildup. Lack of physical activity: Spending little time moving each day while spending a lot of time in front of screens is linked to unhealthy cholesterol levels that lead to atherosclerosis. Older age: For most people, plaque buildup starts in childhood and gets worse as they get older. In men, the risk increases after age 45. In women, the risk increases after age 55. The risk is even higher for women who have endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome, or if they had gestational diabetes or preeclampsia during a pregnancy. Overweight or obesity: Overweight and obesity raise the risk for heart disease and are linked to many other health problems, including type 2 diabetes and cancer. Nearly 3 in 4 adults ages 20 or older in the United States are either overweight or have obesity. Nearly 1 in 5 children and teens ages 2 to 19 have obesity. Race: Black Americans’ risk of death from heart disease is 30% higher than White Americans’ risk. People of South Asian origin (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) also have a higher heart disease risk. Smoking and secondhand smoke: Almost one-third of deaths caused by coronary heart disease are linked to smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke can cause atherosclerosis-linked disease and stroke. Unhealthy diet: Eating a lot of foods high in fat especially saturated fat can increase your cholesterol levels. Saturated fats are found in meat and dairy products (except nonfat dairy). Also, drinking too much alcohol or binge drinking can raise your total cholesterol level.

• #80 Atherosclerosis – Causes and Risk Factors | NHLBI, NIH

  https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/atherosclerosis/causes

  Risk factors are conditions or habits that make a person more likely to develop a disease. Nearly half of Americans have high blood pressure or unhealthy cholesterol levels, or they smoke. These are key risk factors that can trigger the start of plaque buildup. […] What causes atherosclerosis? Plaque buildup in the arteries starts with damage to the arteries. Risk factors such as unhealthy lifestyle habits, medical conditions, or your genes can cause this damage. […] Some atherosclerosis risk factors can trigger the buildup of plaque in your arteries. Other risk factors can lead to an increase in your blood pressure or cholesterol levels. The more risk factors you have, the higher your risk of complications, including heart attack and stroke, or even disability or death. […] Some common examples of risk factors for atherosclerosis are: Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage the inner layers of the arteries, causing plaque buildup. Family history: Your genes may raise your risk, especially if you have a common inherited cholesterol disorder called familial hypercholesterolemia. This condition affects about 1 in 300 people. High blood pressure: Over time, high blood pressure can damage artery walls, allowing plaque to build up. In the United States, high blood pressure accounts for more deaths linked to atherosclerosis than any other risk factor that you can change. Inflammatory diseases: When you have a condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis, high levels of inflammation can injure your blood vessels, which can lead to plaque buildup. Lack of physical activity: Spending little time moving each day while spending a lot of time in front of screens is linked to unhealthy cholesterol levels that lead to atherosclerosis. Older age: For most people, plaque buildup starts in childhood and gets worse as they get older. In men, the risk increases after age 45. In women, the risk increases after age 55. The risk is even higher for women who have endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome, or if they had gestational diabetes or preeclampsia during a pregnancy. Overweight or obesity: Overweight and obesity raise the risk for heart disease and are linked to many other health problems, including type 2 diabetes and cancer. Nearly 3 in 4 adults ages 20 or older in the United States are either overweight or have obesity. Nearly 1 in 5 children and teens ages 2 to 19 have obesity. Race: Black Americans’ risk of death from heart disease is 30% higher than White Americans’ risk. People of South Asian origin (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) also have a higher heart disease risk. Smoking and secondhand smoke: Almost one-third of deaths caused by coronary heart disease are linked to smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke can cause atherosclerosis-linked disease and stroke. Unhealthy diet: Eating a lot of foods high in fat especially saturated fat can increase your cholesterol levels. Saturated fats are found in meat and dairy products (except nonfat dairy). Also, drinking too much alcohol or binge drinking can raise your total cholesterol level.

• #81 Atherosclerosis – BHF

  https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/conditions/atherosclerosis

  Atherosclerosis is a common condition that can affect anyone, particularly if youre over 65 or have a family history of heart or circulatory diseases. Its caused by a build-up of fatty material called atheroma (or plaque) in your artery walls (where blood passes from the heart to the rest of the body). […] Lifestyle, health conditions and family history all effect whether youll get it. Atherosclerosis isnt reversible but lifestyle choices are important in preventing the risk and improving the symptoms of it. […] Since there isnt a specific reason why arteries become narrowed or blocked by atheroma, anyone is at risk of getting atherosclerosis. However, there are some factors that can increase your chances of getting it, such as: a family history of atherosclerosis or other heart problems, being overweight or obese, conditions like high cholesterol, diabetes or high blood pressure (which increase your risk of having heart and circulatory diseases), drinking too much alcohol (more than the recommend weekly amount of 14 units), ethnicity – research has shown that people of some ethnicities (Black Africans, African Caribbean’s and South Asians) in the UK are at higher risk of developing high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes. Both of these conditions increase your risk of having heart and circulatory disease, getting older, especially if you’re over 65, not exercising enough, smoking and using other tobacco products, unhealthy diet. […] If youre diagnosed with atherosclerosis, there arent any treatments that can get rid of it. You’ll have it for the rest of your life. However, there are medicines and treatments that can slow down its progress, reduce your symptoms and let you live your normal life.

• #82 What causes atherosclerosis and its associated risk factors? – Genebase

  https://www.genebase.com/what-causes-atherosclerosis-and-its-associated-risk-factors/

  People with Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi or Sri Lankan origins have an increased risk of developing high blood cholesterol levels. […] The level of LDL cholesterol in blood increases with age. The risk of high cholesterol is increased for males age 45 or older, and females of age 55 or older (after menopause). […] Excess consumption of alcohol can elevate triglyceride and cholesterol levels in the blood, so alcohol consumption should be limited to recommended doses. […] Cholesterol in foods can affect blood cholesterol levels. Cholesterol can be found in foods from animal sources, such as meat, egg yolk and cheese. Both saturated fat and trans fat from diet can also increase LDL cholesterol levels in blood. Saturated fats are found in dairy products, meats, chocolate, deep-fried and processed foods, and trans fats are found in processed and deep-fried foods.

• #83 Cardiothoracic Surgery – Atherosclerosis

  https://adultctsurgery.ucsf.edu/patient/patient-education/atherosclerosis.aspx

  Studies show that an increasing number of children and youth are at risk for atherosclerosis. This is due to a number of causes, including rising childhood obesity rates. […] High levels of a protein called C-reactive protein (CRP) in the blood may raise the risk for atherosclerosis and heart attack. High levels of CRP are a sign of inflammation in the body. […] Other factors also may raise your risk for atherosclerosis, such as: Sleep apnea, Stress, Alcohol.

• #84 Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

  https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/what-is-atherosclerosis

  The following can increase your risk of atherosclerosis. These risk factors are behind more than 90% of all heart attacks: Abdominal obesity („spare tire”), Diabetes and insulin resistance, Family history of heart disease, High alcohol intake (more than one to two drinks a day, depending on your size), High blood pressure, High LDL cholesterol, High levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) in your blood, which is a signal of inflammation, High triglycerides, Not eating fruits and vegetables, Not exercising regularly, Sleep apnea, Smoking, Stress. […] A healthy diet and lifestyle and regular checkups can help slow the progress of atherosclerosis. Without these changes, your life expectancy is significantly shortened — 16 years on average with a heart attack, 10 with heart failure, and maybe even more after a stroke. Adopting a healthy lifestyle could add more than a decade to your life.

• #85 Atherosclerosis (arteriosclerosis): Causes, symptoms, and more

  https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/247837

  Sometimes, pieces of plaque break open. […] Atherosclerosis can affect any artery, but it mainly occurs in the larger, high pressure arteries. […] People with a higher risk of atherosclerosis include those with: diabetes or insulin resistance, a family history of cardiovascular disease, a history of tobacco smoking, high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or bad cholesterol, low physical activity levels, older age, a diet high in saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, salt, and sugar, high blood pressure, obesity, high levels of triglycerides in the blood, stress, high alcohol intake, sleep apnea. […] Recent evidence indicates that inflammation may play a role.

• #86 Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

  https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/what-is-atherosclerosis

  Atherosclerosis can put blood flow at risk as your arteries become blocked, and it can cause clots to form. Its the usual cause of heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease (PAD) — which together are called cardiovascular disease. […] Doctors don’t know exactly how atherosclerosis starts. But it’s believed to begin when the endothelium, the thin layer of cells that lines your arteries, somehow gets damaged. It’s a progressive disease that can begin in childhood. Common causes of damage to the endothelium include: High cholesterol, High blood pressure, Inflammation, like from arthritis or lupus, Obesity or diabetes, Smoking. […] The process of atherosclerosis begins with: Fatty streak. A yellow strip lining the walls of major arteries, fatty streak has been found in children as young as 10. In the fatty streak stage, you feel no symptoms. Fibrous plaque. The second and more dangerous phase of atherosclerosis begins when the cholesterol-containing plaque expands into blood vessels — the bump. Complicated lesion. In the last and most serious stage of atherosclerosis, the plaque begins to break up. This exposes the cholesterol and tissue beneath it, causing unseen but serious harm that your immune system tries to fight off. Blood-clotting cells, which block blood flow, are formed in response. The blood clots, combined with the exposed plaque, create what’s called a complicated lesion.

• #87 Pathophysiology of Atherosclerosis

  https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/23/6/3346

  Disruption of the mechanisms involved in vascular homeostasis regulation leads to endothelial dysfunction. Briefly, when ECs lose their ability to maintain homeostasis, vessel walls are predisposed to vasoconstriction, lipid infiltration, leukocyte adhesion, platelet activation, and oxidative stress, among other things. Together, these induce an inflammatory response that is considered the first step of atheromatous plaque formation: the fatty streak. […] Hemodynamic forces constitute a local risk factor of atherogenesis, as they promote endothelial dysfunction. […] Atherosclerosis is a disease that is characterized by the accumulation of lipids, fibrous elements, and calcification within the large arteries. This process is initiated by endothelium activation, followed by a cascade of events, which implies the vessel narrowing and activation of inflammatory pathways leading to atheroma plaque formation.

• #88 Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

  https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/what-is-atherosclerosis

  Atherosclerosis can put blood flow at risk as your arteries become blocked, and it can cause clots to form. Its the usual cause of heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease (PAD) — which together are called cardiovascular disease. […] Doctors don’t know exactly how atherosclerosis starts. But it’s believed to begin when the endothelium, the thin layer of cells that lines your arteries, somehow gets damaged. It’s a progressive disease that can begin in childhood. Common causes of damage to the endothelium include: High cholesterol, High blood pressure, Inflammation, like from arthritis or lupus, Obesity or diabetes, Smoking. […] The process of atherosclerosis begins with: Fatty streak. A yellow strip lining the walls of major arteries, fatty streak has been found in children as young as 10. In the fatty streak stage, you feel no symptoms. Fibrous plaque. The second and more dangerous phase of atherosclerosis begins when the cholesterol-containing plaque expands into blood vessels — the bump. Complicated lesion. In the last and most serious stage of atherosclerosis, the plaque begins to break up. This exposes the cholesterol and tissue beneath it, causing unseen but serious harm that your immune system tries to fight off. Blood-clotting cells, which block blood flow, are formed in response. The blood clots, combined with the exposed plaque, create what’s called a complicated lesion.

• #89 Pathophysiology of Atherosclerosis

  https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/23/6/3346

  Atherosclerosis is the main risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), which is the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Atherosclerosis is initiated by endothelium activation and, followed by a cascade of events (accumulation of lipids, fibrous elements, and calcification), triggers the vessel narrowing and activation of inflammatory pathways. The resultant atheroma plaque, along with these processes, results in cardiovascular complications. […] Atherosclerosis initiates upon endothelial dysfunction accompanied by low-density lipoprotein (LDL) retention and its modification in the intima. Modified LDLs, together with additional atherogenic factors, promote the activation of ECs, leading to monocyte recruitment within the intima. Modified LDLs are avidly captured by differentiated monocytes and VSMC, which promote foam cell formation.

• #90 Pathophysiology of Atherosclerosis

  https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/23/6/3346

  Disruption of the mechanisms involved in vascular homeostasis regulation leads to endothelial dysfunction. Briefly, when ECs lose their ability to maintain homeostasis, vessel walls are predisposed to vasoconstriction, lipid infiltration, leukocyte adhesion, platelet activation, and oxidative stress, among other things. Together, these induce an inflammatory response that is considered the first step of atheromatous plaque formation: the fatty streak. […] Hemodynamic forces constitute a local risk factor of atherogenesis, as they promote endothelial dysfunction. […] Atherosclerosis is a disease that is characterized by the accumulation of lipids, fibrous elements, and calcification within the large arteries. This process is initiated by endothelium activation, followed by a cascade of events, which implies the vessel narrowing and activation of inflammatory pathways leading to atheroma plaque formation.

• #91 Atherosclerosis – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507799/

  Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease in which there is a build up of plaques inside arteries. These plaques are principally composed of lipids that induce an inflammatory reaction causing turbulent flow with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) as a result. […] Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the arteries and is the underlying cause of about 50% of all deaths in westernized society. It is principally a lipid-driven process initiated by the accumulation of low-density lipoprotein and remnant lipoprotein particles and an active inflammatory process in focal areas of arteries particularly at regions of disturbed non-laminar flow at branch points in the arteries and is considered a primary cause of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) resulting in heart attacks, stroke and peripheral arterial disease.

• #92 Pathophysiology of Atherosclerosis

  https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/23/6/3346

  Endothelial dysfunction also plays a remarkable role in subsequent steps of atherosclerosis by participating in plaque development and in its rupture in the last steps of atherosclerosis. Therefore, an increased endothelial dysfunction is considered an early indicator of atherogenesis. […] Cholesterol accumulation is considered a hallmark of atherosclerotic lesions. […] The necrotic core constitutes the nucleus of the atherosclerotic plaques. Covered by the fibrous cap, the necrotic core consists of a lipid-laden hipocellular region with reduced supporting collagen. […] Atheroma plaque calcification is another hallmark of advanced atherosclerosis. It exists as a bone-like formation within the plaque and is initiated in inflammatory regions with a local decrease in collagen fibers. […] The fibrous cap separates the thrombogenic necrotic core from the circulating coagulation factors and platelets, and its thickness correlates with the vulnerability of the plaque. […] Inflammation contributes to plaque development in all of the steps from initiation to plaque rupture. Indeed, in this last stage, its relevance is remarkable, as it promotes the instability of the fibrous cap.

• #93 Arteriosclerosis | Radiology Reference Article | Radiopaedia.org

  https://radiopaedia.org/articles/arteriosclerosis?lang=us

  Atherosclerosis is characterized by atheromatous plaques in the intima of large and medium-sized arteries. It is the most common form of arteriosclerosis. […] The underlying pathogenesis is not completely understood but is believed to involve chronic endothelial injury which results in an inflammatory response, accumulation of lipids, platelet aggregation and activation of smooth muscle cells. […] A plaque is a raised focal lesion within the intima. It comprises a soft necrotic core (predominantly lipids, foam cells and debris) surrounded by chronic inflammatory cells, smooth muscle cells and neovascularization, and covered by a fibrous cap. […] Advanced plaques may: progressively enlarge: causing critical stenosis and ischemia; ulcerate or rupture (leads to thrombus formation): causing critical ischemia, total occlusion with infarction, or distal embolism; undergo hemorrhage: causing plaque expansion or rupture; cause pressure atrophy of underlying media: causing aneurysmal dilatation. […] Risk factors include advancing age, sex (males and postmenopausal females), hyperlipidemia, hypertension, smoking, diabetes mellitus, family history, and homocystinuria.

• #94 Arteriosclerosis / atherosclerosis – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arteriosclerosis-atherosclerosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20350569

  Atherosclerosis is the buildup of fats, cholesterol and other substances in and on the artery walls. This buildup is called plaque. The plaque can cause arteries to narrow, blocking blood flow. The plaque also can burst, leading to a blood clot. […] Atherosclerosis is a disease that slowly gets worse. It may begin as early as childhood. The exact cause is not known. It may start with damage or injury to the inner layer of an artery. Artery damage may be caused by: High blood pressure. High cholesterol. High triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood. Smoking or other tobacco use. Diabetes. Insulin resistance. Obesity. Inflammation from an unknown cause or from diseases such as arthritis, lupus, psoriasis or inflammatory bowel disease. […] Once the inner wall of an artery is damaged, blood cells and other substances may collect at the injury site. These substances build up in the inner lining of the artery. […] Over time, fats, cholesterol and other substances also collect on and in the walls of the heart arteries. This buildup is called plaque. Plaque can cause the arteries to narrow. Narrowed arteries can block blood flow. The plaque also can burst, leading to a blood clot.

• #95 Atherosclerosis Pathology: Definition, Etiology, Epidemiology

  https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1612610-overview

  Plaque rupture is defined by fibrous cap disruption or fracture, whereby the overlying thrombus is in continuity with the underlying necrotic core. Plaque erosion is identified when serial sectioning through a thrombus fails to show communication with a necrotic core or deep intima; the endothelium is absent, and the thrombus is superimposed on a plaque substrate primarily composed of smooth muscle cells and proteoglycans. […] Studies highlight the role of genetic factors, such as the NEDD4L gene, in modulating vascular inflammation and atherosclerosis plaque stability. Genetic polymorphisms, such as the PCSK9 (rs2149041) polymorphism, are associated with increased carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT), which is a marker of early atherosclerosis.

• #96 4. Atherosclerosis: Cause of CAD | ATrain Education

  https://www.atrainceu.com/content/4-atherosclerosis-cause-cad

  Gradually, atherosclerotic plaques thicken. Internally, the plaques are disorganized and weak. As part of the local repair efforts, a network of small blood vessels grows into the enlarging plaque. […] Many people go through their entire lives unaware that they have atherosclerosis; however, even asymptomatic atherosclerosis is a constant threat because plaques continue to enlarge. One consequence of this continued growth is that the pressure of an enlarging plaque weakens the muscular layer of the arterial wall and makes the region susceptible to ballooning into an aneurysm (rupture of the wall). […] Another consequence is that atherosclerotic plaques become less stable. At some point, the pressure of local blood flow can push the clots and plaque debris downstream to become artery-clogging emboli. The obstructed arteries leave their surrounding tissues ischemic, and the ischemic tissue eventually dies (Libby, 2008).

• #97 Arteriosclerosis / atherosclerosis – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arteriosclerosis-atherosclerosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20350569

  Atherosclerosis is the buildup of fats, cholesterol and other substances in and on the artery walls. This buildup is called plaque. The plaque can cause arteries to narrow, blocking blood flow. The plaque also can burst, leading to a blood clot. […] Atherosclerosis is a disease that slowly gets worse. It may begin as early as childhood. The exact cause is not known. It may start with damage or injury to the inner layer of an artery. Artery damage may be caused by: High blood pressure. High cholesterol. High triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood. Smoking or other tobacco use. Diabetes. Insulin resistance. Obesity. Inflammation from an unknown cause or from diseases such as arthritis, lupus, psoriasis or inflammatory bowel disease. […] Once the inner wall of an artery is damaged, blood cells and other substances may collect at the injury site. These substances build up in the inner lining of the artery. […] Over time, fats, cholesterol and other substances also collect on and in the walls of the heart arteries. This buildup is called plaque. Plaque can cause the arteries to narrow. Narrowed arteries can block blood flow. The plaque also can burst, leading to a blood clot.

• #98 Arteriosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24870-arteriosclerosis

  Arteriosclerosis disrupts normal blood flow through your body. When your arteries are too stiff, it’s harder for oxygen and nutrients to reach your organs and tissues. Therefore, hardening of the arteries can lead to complications, including: Aneurysms, Carotid artery disease, Coronary artery disease, Critical limb ischemia, Heart attack, Kidney failure, Mesenteric ischemia, Peripheral artery disease, Pulmonary embolism, Renal artery stenosis, Stroke, Thrombosis, Transient ischemic attack. […] Some research suggests that medial arterial calcification can speed up the process of arterial narrowing when you have atherosclerosis.

• #99 4. Atherosclerosis: Cause of CAD | ATrain Education

  https://www.atrainceu.com/content/4-atherosclerosis-cause-cad

  Gradually, atherosclerotic plaques thicken. Internally, the plaques are disorganized and weak. As part of the local repair efforts, a network of small blood vessels grows into the enlarging plaque. […] Many people go through their entire lives unaware that they have atherosclerosis; however, even asymptomatic atherosclerosis is a constant threat because plaques continue to enlarge. One consequence of this continued growth is that the pressure of an enlarging plaque weakens the muscular layer of the arterial wall and makes the region susceptible to ballooning into an aneurysm (rupture of the wall). […] Another consequence is that atherosclerotic plaques become less stable. At some point, the pressure of local blood flow can push the clots and plaque debris downstream to become artery-clogging emboli. The obstructed arteries leave their surrounding tissues ischemic, and the ischemic tissue eventually dies (Libby, 2008).

• #100 4. Atherosclerosis: Cause of CAD | ATrain Education

  https://www.atrainceu.com/content/4-atherosclerosis-cause-cad

  Gradually, atherosclerotic plaques thicken. Internally, the plaques are disorganized and weak. As part of the local repair efforts, a network of small blood vessels grows into the enlarging plaque. […] Many people go through their entire lives unaware that they have atherosclerosis; however, even asymptomatic atherosclerosis is a constant threat because plaques continue to enlarge. One consequence of this continued growth is that the pressure of an enlarging plaque weakens the muscular layer of the arterial wall and makes the region susceptible to ballooning into an aneurysm (rupture of the wall). […] Another consequence is that atherosclerotic plaques become less stable. At some point, the pressure of local blood flow can push the clots and plaque debris downstream to become artery-clogging emboli. The obstructed arteries leave their surrounding tissues ischemic, and the ischemic tissue eventually dies (Libby, 2008).

• #101 Atherosclerosis – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507799/

  Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease in which there is a build up of plaques inside arteries. These plaques are principally composed of lipids that induce an inflammatory reaction causing turbulent flow with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) as a result. […] Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the arteries and is the underlying cause of about 50% of all deaths in westernized society. It is principally a lipid-driven process initiated by the accumulation of low-density lipoprotein and remnant lipoprotein particles and an active inflammatory process in focal areas of arteries particularly at regions of disturbed non-laminar flow at branch points in the arteries and is considered a primary cause of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) resulting in heart attacks, stroke and peripheral arterial disease.

• #102 Atherosclerosis: Treatment, Symptoms, Causes, Prevention

  https://medconsonline.com/en/blog/atherosclerotic-vascular-disease

  Mixed. In this case, the causes of both haemodynamic and metabolic form are present. This is the most common disease type. […] In addition to the above, frequent stress, hereditary predisposition and increased blood clotting are considered as atherosclerosis risk factors. […] There is no direct link between cholesterol and atherosclerosis. […] Even if you eat a lot of fatty foods, cholesterol is not deposited on the arterial walls if there is no damage or other provoking factors. […] The development of atherosclerosis is associated with high cholesterol levels in the blood. However, other factors are also important. Therefore, high cholesterol alone is not a reason for prescribing drug therapy. […] According to the latest scientific evidence, coronary atherosclerosis bears a remarkable resemblance to tumors. It starts with damage to the inner layer of the arteries, the endothelium. Factors such as high blood pressure, unhealthy diet and smoking play a role. As a result of the damage, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol particles are deposited in the artery walls and cause a constant inflammatory response. This inflammation leads to the formation of plaques, composed of fat and dead cells, in the artery walls.

• #103 Atherosclerosis – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507799/

  Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease in which there is a build up of plaques inside arteries. These plaques are principally composed of lipids that induce an inflammatory reaction causing turbulent flow with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) as a result. […] Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the arteries and is the underlying cause of about 50% of all deaths in westernized society. It is principally a lipid-driven process initiated by the accumulation of low-density lipoprotein and remnant lipoprotein particles and an active inflammatory process in focal areas of arteries particularly at regions of disturbed non-laminar flow at branch points in the arteries and is considered a primary cause of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) resulting in heart attacks, stroke and peripheral arterial disease.

• #104 Atherosclerosis | Nature Reviews Disease Primers

  https://www.nature.com/articles/s41572-019-0106-z

  Atherosclerosis, the formation of fibrofatty lesions in the artery wall, causes much morbidity and mortality worldwide, including most myocardial infarctions and many strokes, as well as disabling peripheral artery disease. […] Development of atherosclerotic lesions probably requires low-density lipoprotein, a particle that carries cholesterol through the blood. Other risk factors for atherosclerosis and its thrombotic complications include hypertension, cigarette smoking and diabetes mellitus. […] Increasing evidence also points to a role of the immune system, as emerging risk factors include inflammation and clonal haematopoiesis. […] Studies of the cell and molecular biology of atherogenesis have provided considerable insight into the mechanisms that link all these risk factors to atheroma development and the clinical manifestations of this disease.

• #105 Pathophysiology of Atherosclerosis

  https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/23/6/3346

  Endothelial dysfunction also plays a remarkable role in subsequent steps of atherosclerosis by participating in plaque development and in its rupture in the last steps of atherosclerosis. Therefore, an increased endothelial dysfunction is considered an early indicator of atherogenesis. […] Cholesterol accumulation is considered a hallmark of atherosclerotic lesions. […] The necrotic core constitutes the nucleus of the atherosclerotic plaques. Covered by the fibrous cap, the necrotic core consists of a lipid-laden hipocellular region with reduced supporting collagen. […] Atheroma plaque calcification is another hallmark of advanced atherosclerosis. It exists as a bone-like formation within the plaque and is initiated in inflammatory regions with a local decrease in collagen fibers. […] The fibrous cap separates the thrombogenic necrotic core from the circulating coagulation factors and platelets, and its thickness correlates with the vulnerability of the plaque. […] Inflammation contributes to plaque development in all of the steps from initiation to plaque rupture. Indeed, in this last stage, its relevance is remarkable, as it promotes the instability of the fibrous cap.

• #106 Atherosclerosis – Cardiovascular Disorders – MSD Manual Professional Edition

  https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/cardiovascular-disorders/arteriosclerosis/atherosclerosis

  Atherosclerosis is characterized by patchy intimal plaques (atheromas) that encroach on the lumen of medium-sized and large arteries. Risk factors include dyslipidemia, diabetes, cigarette smoking, family history, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, and hypertension. […] Atherosclerosis is the most common form of arteriosclerosis, which is a general term for several disorders that cause thickening and loss of elasticity in the arterial wall. Atherosclerosis can affect all large and medium-sized arteries, including the coronary, carotid, and cerebral arteries; the aorta; its branches; and major arteries of the extremities. It is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the US and in most developed countries. […] Risk factors for atherosclerosis (eg, dyslipidemia, diabetes, cigarette smoking, hypertension), oxidative stressors (eg, superoxide radicals), angiotensin II, and systemic infection and inflammation also inhibit nitric oxide production and stimulate production of adhesion molecules, proinflammatory cytokines, chemotactic proteins, and vasoconstrictors; exact mechanisms are unknown.

• #107 Atherosclerosis: Treatment, Symptoms, Causes, Prevention

  https://medconsonline.com/en/blog/atherosclerotic-vascular-disease

  Mixed. In this case, the causes of both haemodynamic and metabolic form are present. This is the most common disease type. […] In addition to the above, frequent stress, hereditary predisposition and increased blood clotting are considered as atherosclerosis risk factors. […] There is no direct link between cholesterol and atherosclerosis. […] Even if you eat a lot of fatty foods, cholesterol is not deposited on the arterial walls if there is no damage or other provoking factors. […] The development of atherosclerosis is associated with high cholesterol levels in the blood. However, other factors are also important. Therefore, high cholesterol alone is not a reason for prescribing drug therapy. […] According to the latest scientific evidence, coronary atherosclerosis bears a remarkable resemblance to tumors. It starts with damage to the inner layer of the arteries, the endothelium. Factors such as high blood pressure, unhealthy diet and smoking play a role. As a result of the damage, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol particles are deposited in the artery walls and cause a constant inflammatory response. This inflammation leads to the formation of plaques, composed of fat and dead cells, in the artery walls.

• #108 Atherosclerosis: Treatment, Symptoms, Causes, Prevention

  https://medconsonline.com/en/blog/atherosclerotic-vascular-disease

  Researchers at Columbia University found that these altered muscle cells behave similarly to cancer cells. They proliferate uncontrollably, sprout into surrounding tissues and develop resistance to natural cell death. They activate genetic and cellular networks that are also active in tumors, which can accelerate the development of vascular atherosclerosis.

• #109 Researchers uncover how a genetic mutation can cause individuals with normal cholesterol levels to develop coronary artery disease at a young age – UTHealth Houston

  https://www.uth.edu/news/story/researchers-uncover-how-a-genetic-mutation-can-cause-individuals-with-normal-cholesterol-levels-to-develop-coronary-artery-disease-at-a-young-age

  A novel molecular pathway to explain how a mutation in the gene ACTA2 can cause individuals in their 30s with normal cholesterol levels and no other risk factors to develop coronary artery disease has been identified, according to researchers with UTHealth Houston. […] It was a surprise to find that people with the gene mutation had too much atherosclerosis at a young age and with no risk factors. […] A 2009 study led by Milewicz found that a number of mutations in ACTA2 predispose humans to develop early onset (30s or younger) coronary artery disease. […] Milewicz and her team found that protein coded by this gene is not folded correctly because of the mutation, and it triggers stress in the smooth muscle cell, which then forces the cell to make more cholesterol internally, regardless of the levels of cholesterol in the blood, driving atherosclerotic plaque formation.

• #110 Researchers uncover how a genetic mutation can cause individuals with normal cholesterol levels to develop coronary artery disease at a young age – UTHealth Houston

  https://www.uth.edu/news/story/researchers-uncover-how-a-genetic-mutation-can-cause-individuals-with-normal-cholesterol-levels-to-develop-coronary-artery-disease-at-a-young-age

  A novel molecular pathway to explain how a mutation in the gene ACTA2 can cause individuals in their 30s with normal cholesterol levels and no other risk factors to develop coronary artery disease has been identified, according to researchers with UTHealth Houston. […] It was a surprise to find that people with the gene mutation had too much atherosclerosis at a young age and with no risk factors. […] A 2009 study led by Milewicz found that a number of mutations in ACTA2 predispose humans to develop early onset (30s or younger) coronary artery disease. […] Milewicz and her team found that protein coded by this gene is not folded correctly because of the mutation, and it triggers stress in the smooth muscle cell, which then forces the cell to make more cholesterol internally, regardless of the levels of cholesterol in the blood, driving atherosclerotic plaque formation.

• #111 Researchers uncover how a genetic mutation can cause individuals with normal cholesterol levels to develop coronary artery disease at a young age – UTHealth Houston

  https://www.uth.edu/news/story/researchers-uncover-how-a-genetic-mutation-can-cause-individuals-with-normal-cholesterol-levels-to-develop-coronary-artery-disease-at-a-young-age

  This finding is unique in that we found a completely new pathway to atherosclerosis. […] In the people with ACTA2 mutations, the statins block the cholesterol made by the stressed smooth muscle cells. […] We are now working on the risk factors for coronary artery disease, like hypertension, that would also stress the cells and activate this novel pathway for coronary artery disease. […] One of the results of stress in smooth muscle cells associated with atherosclerosis is the deposition of calcium in the arteries. […] Using a genetically engineered mouse that contains a particular ACTA2 mutation and feeding the mice a diet rich in cholesterol, the researchers induced atherosclerosis and found that these mice have much more atherosclerosis than similarly treated normal mice. […] The study also found that the increased atherosclerosis could be reversed by treating the mice with pravastatin, a member of the statin group of drugs commonly prescribed to lower blood cholesterol. […] Statins prevent coronary artery disease by lowering the levels of cholesterol in the blood. […] Statins also reduce heart attack events in people with normal cholesterol levels.

• #112 Atherosclerosis – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atherosclerosis

  Atherosclerosis generally starts when a person is young and worsens with age. Almost all people are affected to some degree by the age of 65. […] Though it was first described in 1575, there is evidence suggesting that this disease state is genetically inherent in the broader human population, with its origins tracing back to CMAH genetic mutations that may have occurred more than two million years ago during the evolution of hominin ancestors of modern human beings.

• #113 Atherosclerosis – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atherosclerosis

  Atherosclerosis is a pattern of the disease arteriosclerosis, characterized by development of abnormalities called lesions in walls of arteries. This is a chronic inflammatory disease involving many different cell types and is driven by elevated levels of cholesterol in the blood. The exact cause of atherosclerosis is unknown and is proposed to be multifactorial. Risk factors include abnormal cholesterol levels, elevated levels of inflammatory biomarkers, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking (both active and passive smoking), obesity, genetic factors, family history, lifestyle habits, and an unhealthy diet. […] The narrowing of arteries limits the flow of oxygen-rich blood to parts of the body. […] Genetic factors are also strongly implicated in the disease process; it is unlikely to be entirely based on lifestyle choices.

• #114 Arteriosclerosis / atherosclerosis – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arteriosclerosis-atherosclerosis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350575

  To diagnose atherosclerosis, your healthcare professional examines you and listens to your heart. […] Tests can help diagnose atherosclerosis and find the cause. […] High levels of blood sugar and cholesterol raise the risk of atherosclerosis. […] Lifestyle changes can help keep the arteries healthy. They also can prevent or slow atherosclerosis. […] Smoking is a major risk factor for coronary artery disease. […] Being overweight increases the risk of coronary artery disease, which is caused by atherosclerosis. […] Some foods and herbal supplements may help lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Those two conditions are major risk factors for developing atherosclerosis. […] If you think you may have atherosclerosis or if you have a family history of heart disease, make an appointment for a health checkup. […] It’s never too early to make healthy lifestyle changes. Eat healthy, be active, get more exercise and don’t smoke or vape. These are simple ways to protect yourself against atherosclerosis and its complications, including heart attack and stroke.

• #115 Atherosclerosis > Fact Sheets > Yale Medicine

  https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/atherosclerosis

  Atherosclerosis is slow to develop and usually only causes symptoms when it substantially reduces or blocks blood flow. […] Treatment for atherosclerosis includes lifestyle changes, medications, minimally invasive procedures, and surgery. Many of these treatments aim to reduce or eliminate risk factors known to worsen plaque buildup in arteries. […] Atherosclerosis is a common disease that can lead to cardiovascular disease, stroke, heart attack, and serious other conditions. However, if you have atherosclerosis, there are measures you can take, along with treatments, to slow or stop the progression of the disease.

• #116 Arteriosclerosis / atherosclerosis – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arteriosclerosis-atherosclerosis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350575

  To diagnose atherosclerosis, your healthcare professional examines you and listens to your heart. […] Tests can help diagnose atherosclerosis and find the cause. […] High levels of blood sugar and cholesterol raise the risk of atherosclerosis. […] Lifestyle changes can help keep the arteries healthy. They also can prevent or slow atherosclerosis. […] Smoking is a major risk factor for coronary artery disease. […] Being overweight increases the risk of coronary artery disease, which is caused by atherosclerosis. […] Some foods and herbal supplements may help lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Those two conditions are major risk factors for developing atherosclerosis. […] If you think you may have atherosclerosis or if you have a family history of heart disease, make an appointment for a health checkup. […] It’s never too early to make healthy lifestyle changes. Eat healthy, be active, get more exercise and don’t smoke or vape. These are simple ways to protect yourself against atherosclerosis and its complications, including heart attack and stroke.

• #117 Atherosclerosis: MedlinePlus Medical EncyclopediaLock

  https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000171.htm

  Losing weight if you are overweight and reducing blood sugar if you have diabetes or pre-diabetes can help reduce the risk of developing atherosclerosis. […] Atherosclerosis cannot be reversed once it has occurred. However, lifestyle changes and treating high cholesterol levels can prevent or slow the process from becoming worse. This can help reduce the chances of having a heart attack and stroke as a result of atherosclerosis.

• #118 Understanding Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

  https://avicennacardiology.com/treatment/atherosclerosis/

  If left untreated, atherosclerosis can lead to severe complications due to reduced or blocked arteries. […] Atherosclerosis can significantly impact blood flow throughout the body. As plaque builds up in the arteries, it narrows the passageway for blood, reducing the amount of oxygen and nutrients that reach various organs and tissues. […] The goal of atherosclerosis treatment is to improve blood flow, reduce symptoms, and prevent complications such as a heart attack or stroke. Treatment typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and medical procedures. […] Preventing atherosclerosis is essential for maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system. The following steps can help reduce the risk of plaque buildup and protect heart and blood vessels: Healthy lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet low in saturated fats and high in fiber. Exercise regularly to keep blood circulation optimal. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

• #119 In-Depth Reports – Atherosclerosis causes

  https://ssl.adam.com/content.aspx?productid=10&isarticlelink=false&pid=84&gid=000014&site=auburnhospital.adam.com&login=AUBU6368

  Atherosclerosis is a condition in which deposits of fatty material, called plaques, develop in the walls of arteries, leading to a reduction or blockage of blood flow. […] The development of atherosclerosis is complex, but the primary event appears to be injury to the arterial wall. Many different factors can injure the artery’s wall, triggering the formation of plaque, for example, turbulent blood flow due to high blood pressure (BP), inflammatory immune responses, certain infections, and chemical abnormalities of the blood, such as diabetes and high cholesterol. […] Certain risk factors, such as being a male, advanced age, and a family history of early atherosclerosis, cannot be changed. However, to help prevent atherosclerosis, individuals can refrain from tobacco use, decrease low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, lose weight, consume fresh fruits and vegetables daily, eat a diet that is low in saturated fats, and exercise regularly. […] Diabetic individuals need to maintain strict control of their blood sugar. People at high risk for developing atherosclerosis may also benefit from taking certain drugs, such as statins, aspirin, or other antiplatelet drugs.

• #120 Atherosclerosis: MedlinePlus Medical EncyclopediaLock

  https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000171.htm

  Losing weight if you are overweight and reducing blood sugar if you have diabetes or pre-diabetes can help reduce the risk of developing atherosclerosis. […] Atherosclerosis cannot be reversed once it has occurred. However, lifestyle changes and treating high cholesterol levels can prevent or slow the process from becoming worse. This can help reduce the chances of having a heart attack and stroke as a result of atherosclerosis.

• #121 Atherosclerosis > Fact Sheets > Yale Medicine

  https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/atherosclerosis

  Atherosclerosis is slow to develop and usually only causes symptoms when it substantially reduces or blocks blood flow. […] Treatment for atherosclerosis includes lifestyle changes, medications, minimally invasive procedures, and surgery. Many of these treatments aim to reduce or eliminate risk factors known to worsen plaque buildup in arteries. […] Atherosclerosis is a common disease that can lead to cardiovascular disease, stroke, heart attack, and serious other conditions. However, if you have atherosclerosis, there are measures you can take, along with treatments, to slow or stop the progression of the disease.

• #122 Atherosclerosis Guide: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Options

  https://www.drugs.com/health-guide/atherosclerosis.html

  Atherosclerosis is a long-term condition that continues to worsen over many decades without changes in lifestyle and medication if necessary. […] There is no cure for atherosclerosis, but treatment can slow or halt the worsening of the disease. The major treatment goal is to prevent significant narrowing of the arteries so that symptoms never develop and vital organs are never damaged. […] Atherosclerosis leads to the number one cause of death in the United States and many other countries: cardiovascular disease. However, people with atherosclerosis are living longer with better quality of life than ever before. For many, this disease can be prevented. Even those people genetically programmed for atherosclerosis can delay the beginning and worsening of the disease with a healthy lifestyle, the right foods, and medication to lower LDL cholesterol.

• #123 Researchers uncover how a genetic mutation can cause individuals with normal cholesterol levels to develop coronary artery disease at a young age – UTHealth Houston

  https://www.uth.edu/news/story/researchers-uncover-how-a-genetic-mutation-can-cause-individuals-with-normal-cholesterol-levels-to-develop-coronary-artery-disease-at-a-young-age

  This finding is unique in that we found a completely new pathway to atherosclerosis. […] In the people with ACTA2 mutations, the statins block the cholesterol made by the stressed smooth muscle cells. […] We are now working on the risk factors for coronary artery disease, like hypertension, that would also stress the cells and activate this novel pathway for coronary artery disease. […] One of the results of stress in smooth muscle cells associated with atherosclerosis is the deposition of calcium in the arteries. […] Using a genetically engineered mouse that contains a particular ACTA2 mutation and feeding the mice a diet rich in cholesterol, the researchers induced atherosclerosis and found that these mice have much more atherosclerosis than similarly treated normal mice. […] The study also found that the increased atherosclerosis could be reversed by treating the mice with pravastatin, a member of the statin group of drugs commonly prescribed to lower blood cholesterol. […] Statins prevent coronary artery disease by lowering the levels of cholesterol in the blood. […] Statins also reduce heart attack events in people with normal cholesterol levels.

• #124 Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

  https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/what-is-atherosclerosis

  The following can increase your risk of atherosclerosis. These risk factors are behind more than 90% of all heart attacks: Abdominal obesity („spare tire”), Diabetes and insulin resistance, Family history of heart disease, High alcohol intake (more than one to two drinks a day, depending on your size), High blood pressure, High LDL cholesterol, High levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) in your blood, which is a signal of inflammation, High triglycerides, Not eating fruits and vegetables, Not exercising regularly, Sleep apnea, Smoking, Stress. […] A healthy diet and lifestyle and regular checkups can help slow the progress of atherosclerosis. Without these changes, your life expectancy is significantly shortened — 16 years on average with a heart attack, 10 with heart failure, and maybe even more after a stroke. Adopting a healthy lifestyle could add more than a decade to your life.

• #125 Atherosclerosis Guide: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Options

  https://www.drugs.com/health-guide/atherosclerosis.html

  Atherosclerosis is a long-term condition that continues to worsen over many decades without changes in lifestyle and medication if necessary. […] There is no cure for atherosclerosis, but treatment can slow or halt the worsening of the disease. The major treatment goal is to prevent significant narrowing of the arteries so that symptoms never develop and vital organs are never damaged. […] Atherosclerosis leads to the number one cause of death in the United States and many other countries: cardiovascular disease. However, people with atherosclerosis are living longer with better quality of life than ever before. For many, this disease can be prevented. Even those people genetically programmed for atherosclerosis can delay the beginning and worsening of the disease with a healthy lifestyle, the right foods, and medication to lower LDL cholesterol.

• #126 Atherosclerosis Guide: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Options

  https://www.drugs.com/health-guide/atherosclerosis.html

  Atherosclerosis is a long-term condition that continues to worsen over many decades without changes in lifestyle and medication if necessary. […] There is no cure for atherosclerosis, but treatment can slow or halt the worsening of the disease. The major treatment goal is to prevent significant narrowing of the arteries so that symptoms never develop and vital organs are never damaged. […] Atherosclerosis leads to the number one cause of death in the United States and many other countries: cardiovascular disease. However, people with atherosclerosis are living longer with better quality of life than ever before. For many, this disease can be prevented. Even those people genetically programmed for atherosclerosis can delay the beginning and worsening of the disease with a healthy lifestyle, the right foods, and medication to lower LDL cholesterol.

• #127 Atherosclerosis – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atherosclerosis

  Atherosclerosis is a pattern of the disease arteriosclerosis, characterized by development of abnormalities called lesions in walls of arteries. This is a chronic inflammatory disease involving many different cell types and is driven by elevated levels of cholesterol in the blood. The exact cause of atherosclerosis is unknown and is proposed to be multifactorial. Risk factors include abnormal cholesterol levels, elevated levels of inflammatory biomarkers, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking (both active and passive smoking), obesity, genetic factors, family history, lifestyle habits, and an unhealthy diet. […] The narrowing of arteries limits the flow of oxygen-rich blood to parts of the body. […] Genetic factors are also strongly implicated in the disease process; it is unlikely to be entirely based on lifestyle choices.

• #128 Atherosclerosis Causes | Stanford Health Care

  https://stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-conditions/blood-heart-circulation/atherosclerosis/causes.html

  It is unknown exactly how atherosclerosis begins or what causes it. […] Some scientists think that certain risk factors may be associated with atherosclerosis, including: Elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels, High blood pressure, Smoking, Diabetes mellitus (type 1 diabetes), Obesity, Physical inactivity. […] There is a gradual build-up of plaque or thickening of the inside of the walls of the artery, causing a decrease in the amount of blood flow, and a decrease in the oxygen supply to the vital body organs and extremities.

• #129 Arteriosclerosis / atherosclerosis – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arteriosclerosis-atherosclerosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20350569

  Atherosclerosis is the buildup of fats, cholesterol and other substances in and on the artery walls. This buildup is called plaque. The plaque can cause arteries to narrow, blocking blood flow. The plaque also can burst, leading to a blood clot. […] Atherosclerosis is a disease that slowly gets worse. It may begin as early as childhood. The exact cause is not known. It may start with damage or injury to the inner layer of an artery. Artery damage may be caused by: High blood pressure. High cholesterol. High triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood. Smoking or other tobacco use. Diabetes. Insulin resistance. Obesity. Inflammation from an unknown cause or from diseases such as arthritis, lupus, psoriasis or inflammatory bowel disease. […] Once the inner wall of an artery is damaged, blood cells and other substances may collect at the injury site. These substances build up in the inner lining of the artery. […] Over time, fats, cholesterol and other substances also collect on and in the walls of the heart arteries. This buildup is called plaque. Plaque can cause the arteries to narrow. Narrowed arteries can block blood flow. The plaque also can burst, leading to a blood clot.

• #130 Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes & Risk Factors | Max Hospital

  https://www.maxhealthcare.in/blogs/atherosclerosis-symptoms-and-causes

  Atherosclerosis may develop as a complex interplay of various factors, including: […] High cholesterol: Elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as „bad” cholesterol, can lead to the accumulation of cholesterol in the arterial walls, initiating the process of atherosclerosis. […] High blood pressure (hypertension): High blood pressure can damage the inner lining of arteries (endothelium), making them more susceptible to the buildup of plaque. […] Smoking: Tobacco smoke contains chemicals that damage the endothelium and promote the formation of atherosclerotic plaque. Smoking also contributes to inflammation and increases the risk of blood clot formation. […] Diabetes: Diabetes mellitus, particularly type 2 diabetes, is associated with elevated blood sugar levels, insulin resistance, and inflammation, all of which can accelerate the development of atherosclerosis.

• #131 Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes & Risk Factors | Max Hospital

  https://www.maxhealthcare.in/blogs/atherosclerosis-symptoms-and-causes

  Obesity and unhealthy diet: Being overweight or obese, particularly with excess abdominal fat, increases the risk of atherosclerosis. A diet high in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, and refined carbohydrates can contribute to elevated cholesterol levels and atherosclerotic plaque formation. […] Physical inactivity: Lack of regular physical activity is associated with numerous risk factors for atherosclerosis, including obesity, high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, and insulin resistance. […] Family history and genetics: A family history of atherosclerosis or cardiovascular disease increases the risk of developing the condition. Genetic factors may influence cholesterol metabolism, blood clotting tendencies, and other processes involved in atherosclerosis. […] Age and gender: Atherosclerosis becomes more common with advancing age, as arterial walls become less flexible and more prone to damage. Men tend to develop atherosclerosis at a younger age than women, although the risk for women increases after menopause.

• #132 Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes & Risk Factors | Max Hospital

  https://www.maxhealthcare.in/blogs/atherosclerosis-symptoms-and-causes

  Inflammation: Chronic inflammation, whether due to underlying conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease, or lifestyle factors such as poor diet or smoking, can contribute to endothelial damage and plaque formation. […] Other risk factors: Additional risk factors for atherosclerosis include excessive alcohol consumption, stress, sleep apnea, and certain medications or medical conditions that raise cholesterol levels or promote inflammation. […] Overall, atherosclerosis is a multifactorial condition influenced by a combination of genetic predisposition, lifestyle factors, and other medical conditions. Identifying and addressing these risk factors through lifestyle modifications, medications, and medical interventions are essential for preventing or slowing the progression and reducing the risk of complications.

• #133 Atherosclerosis | Nature Reviews Disease Primers

  https://www.nature.com/articles/s41572-019-0106-z

  Atherosclerosis, the formation of fibrofatty lesions in the artery wall, causes much morbidity and mortality worldwide, including most myocardial infarctions and many strokes, as well as disabling peripheral artery disease. […] Development of atherosclerotic lesions probably requires low-density lipoprotein, a particle that carries cholesterol through the blood. Other risk factors for atherosclerosis and its thrombotic complications include hypertension, cigarette smoking and diabetes mellitus. […] Increasing evidence also points to a role of the immune system, as emerging risk factors include inflammation and clonal haematopoiesis. […] Studies of the cell and molecular biology of atherogenesis have provided considerable insight into the mechanisms that link all these risk factors to atheroma development and the clinical manifestations of this disease.

• #134 Researchers uncover how a genetic mutation can cause individuals with normal cholesterol levels to develop coronary artery disease at a young age – UTHealth Houston

  https://www.uth.edu/news/story/researchers-uncover-how-a-genetic-mutation-can-cause-individuals-with-normal-cholesterol-levels-to-develop-coronary-artery-disease-at-a-young-age

  A novel molecular pathway to explain how a mutation in the gene ACTA2 can cause individuals in their 30s with normal cholesterol levels and no other risk factors to develop coronary artery disease has been identified, according to researchers with UTHealth Houston. […] It was a surprise to find that people with the gene mutation had too much atherosclerosis at a young age and with no risk factors. […] A 2009 study led by Milewicz found that a number of mutations in ACTA2 predispose humans to develop early onset (30s or younger) coronary artery disease. […] Milewicz and her team found that protein coded by this gene is not folded correctly because of the mutation, and it triggers stress in the smooth muscle cell, which then forces the cell to make more cholesterol internally, regardless of the levels of cholesterol in the blood, driving atherosclerotic plaque formation.

• #135 Atherosclerosis > Fact Sheets > Yale Medicine

  https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/atherosclerosis

  Atherosclerosis is slow to develop and usually only causes symptoms when it substantially reduces or blocks blood flow. […] Treatment for atherosclerosis includes lifestyle changes, medications, minimally invasive procedures, and surgery. Many of these treatments aim to reduce or eliminate risk factors known to worsen plaque buildup in arteries. […] Atherosclerosis is a common disease that can lead to cardiovascular disease, stroke, heart attack, and serious other conditions. However, if you have atherosclerosis, there are measures you can take, along with treatments, to slow or stop the progression of the disease.

• #136 Understanding Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

  https://avicennacardiology.com/treatment/atherosclerosis/

  Atherosclerosis is a serious condition that affects millions globally, but it is also largely preventable with the right approach. Understanding the risk factors for atherosclerosis, recognizing early symptoms of atherosclerosis, and adopting a healthy lifestyle can make a significant difference in reducing the burden of this disease.

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