Atherosclerosis is the buildup of plaque in your arteries that restricts blood flow to vital organs, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular complications.
This medical condition is the most common cause of death in both men and women globally, and it impacts individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Although atherosclerosis may be asymptomatic in some cases, certain groups of people are more susceptible to developing this disease than others due to lifestyle choices, environmental factors, and underlying medical conditions.
Age
The risk of developing atherosclerosis increases with age. Individuals over the age of 45 for men and 55 for women are at a higher risk for this disease.
As people age, their arteries naturally become stiffer and less pliable, making them more susceptible to plaque buildup. Additionally, our blood vessels undergo natural wear and tear from everyday activities and lifestyle factors such as high blood pressure or diabetes, which may increase the risk of atherosclerosis.
Family History
Individuals with a family history of atherosclerosis or heart disease have a higher likelihood of developing the condition themselves.
Family history of heart disease can be due to a shared genetic risk or lifestyle choices passed down through generations. Inheriting certain genes can affect blood cholesterol levels and increase susceptibility to atherosclerosis, making it more likely for a person to develop the disease.
Smoking
Smoking is a significant risk factor that significantly increases the likelihood of developing atherosclerosis.
Cigarette smoking damages the inner lining of the arteries, leading to the buildup of plaques more frequently and making it more dangerous for them to acquire necessary nutrients. Compared to non-smokers, current smokers are two to four times more likely to develop atherosclerosis. Exposure to secondhand smoke can also increase the risk of atherosclerosis, particularly in those with preexisting cardiovascular conditions.
Obesity
Being overweight or obese increases the risk of atherosclerosis, primarily since the condition causes changes like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and insulin resistance.
These unhealthy lifestyle factors lead to inflammation and a buildup of plaque in the arteries over time, creating a higher likelihood of atherosclerosis. Weight loss through moderate exercise and a healthy diet may improve risk factors for the condition in overweight or obese individuals.
Inactivity
Inactivity and a sedentary lifestyle are known to contribute to atherosclerosis, particularly through obesity, high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes, and weight gain.
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Exercise helps with weight management, lowers cholesterol, and strengthens heart muscles, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis. Even consistent physical activities such as walking or housework that do not require intense exercise can improve cardiovascular health.
High Cholesterol
High levels of cholesterol in the blood increase the likelihood of atherosclerosis. Cholesterol sticks to the arterial wall, initiating a cascade of events in the immune system, causing inflammation, oxidization, and plaque formation.
Additionally, high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which is commonly known as bad cholesterol, are thought to contribute significantly to atherosclerosis development.
Uncontrolled Hypertension
Uncontrolled hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a significant risk factor for atherosclerosis as it damages the arterial walls.
High blood pressure leads to the thickening, weakening, and narrowing of blood vessels, which contribute to the formation of plaques. People with hypertension should continuously monitor their blood pressure and take measures prescribed by their doctor to control it and keep it at safe levels.
Diabetes
People with type 1 or type 2 diabetes have an increased risk of atherosclerosis and its complications. High blood sugar levels cause inflammation in the arterial walls, leading to the development of plaques.
In individuals with diabetes, the blood vessels tend to become stiff, narrowing the arteries, making it more likely for the plaques to rupture and result in a heart attack or stroke.
Unhealthy Diet
A diet that includes high amounts of saturated and trans fats, processed carbohydrate, sugar, and salt can increase the risk of atherosclerosis.
These foods cause high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, inflammation, and weight gain, all of which increase the risk of atherosclerosis. To reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, the American Heart Association recommends the consumption of a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Medical Conditions
Some medical conditions, such as chronic kidney disease, sleep apnea, inflammatory diseases, or autoimmune disorders, increase the risk of atherosclerosis.
These conditions tend to create a build-up of risk factors like high blood pressure, inflammation, and insulin resistance, leading to more significant risk of developing the condition.
