Atherosclerosis Pathology

Atherosclerosis is a hardening and narrowing of the arteries, caused by fatty deposits (plaque) on the artery walls. It is a major cause of death and disability worldwide, as it can lead to heart attack, stroke, and other severe medical conditions. The primary underlying cause of atherosclerosis is an unhealthy lifestyle and diet, with smoking and high cholesterol levels playing a major role. Treatment and prevention of atherosclerosis include lifestyle changes such as exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, quitting smoking, and controlling blood pressure and diabetes. Early detection and monitoring of atherosclerosis is important so that treatments can be started and monitored for effectiveness.