High Blood Pressure: Constantly elevated blood pressure can damage the inner lining of the arteries, creating small tears where plaque can easily accumulate. Over time, this damage reduces arterial flexibility, making it harder for blood to flow and increasing the risk of heart disease.
High Cholesterol Levels: High levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol contribute to plaque formation, as LDL can deposit on arterial walls, leading to blockages. Meanwhile, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol helps remove LDL from the bloodstream, so low HDL levels further exacerbate the problem.
Smoking: The chemicals in tobacco smoke, including carbon monoxide and nicotine, cause direct damage to the blood vessels, promoting inflammation and narrowing arteries. Smoking also lowers HDL cholesterol, compounding the problem.
Diabetes: High blood sugar levels, characteristic of diabetes, damage the endothelial cells that line the arteries, making it easier for plaque to accumulate. People with diabetes also tend to have other related conditions, like high blood pressure and unhealthy cholesterol levels.
Obesity: Carrying excess body weight increases the likelihood of developing related conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia (abnormal cholesterol levels), all of which contribute to plaque formation.
Physical Inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle is a significant risk factor as it increases the likelihood of obesity and contributes to unhealthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Regular exercise promotes healthy circulation and helps maintain a healthy weight.
Unhealthy Diet: Diets high in saturated and trans fats increase LDL cholesterol, while excessive sugar and processed foods contribute to obesity and diabetes, heightening the risk of atherosclerosis.
Family History and Age: A genetic predisposition to cardiovascular disease can increase risk, especially as age advances, since arteries naturally stiffen over time.
Inflammatory Diseases: Chronic inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can increase the systemic inflammation that contributes to atherosclerosis.
By addressing these risk factors, individuals can significantly lower their chances of developing atherosclerosis and improve overall cardiovascular health.Key Risk Factors Contributing to Atherosclerosis and How to Address Them
