Final answer:
Cardiovascular disease encompasses a range of conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, primarily caused by atherosclerosis, with risk factors including lifestyle choices and hypertension.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a term used to describe a class of diseases that affect the heart and blood vessels. The most common cause of CVD is atherosclerosis, which refers to the buildup of plaque within the arteries. This can lead to various conditions such as coronary artery disease (which includes angina and heart attacks), stroke, and peripheral artery disease. Risk factors for developing CVD include smoking, obesity, diabetes, high blood cholesterol, and sedentary lifestyle. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of CVD, and the management of conditions like hypertension (high blood pressure) is crucial in preventing further cardiovascular complications.