Question

The hardening of blood vessel walls that results from fatty deposits in the vessels is called atherosclerosis.

a) True
b) False

Answer 1

The claim that atherosclerosis involves the hardening of blood vessel walls due to fatty deposits is true. Atherosclerosis refers to the buildup of plaques made up of fats, connective tissue, and other substances, which can lead to cardiovascular diseases.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement that the hardening of blood vessel walls resulting from fatty deposits in the vessels is called atherosclerosis is true. Atherosclerosis is a condition characterized by the thickening and loss of elasticity of the artery walls due to the buildup of plaques. These plaques are typically made up of a complex aggregation of substances, including fatty elements like cholesterol, calcified deposits, connective tissue, and white blood cells.

Plaques grow over time and can reduce blood flow through the arteries. Contributing factors to the development of atherosclerosis include a high-fat diet, smoking, obesity, lack of physical activity, and pre-existing conditions like hypertension and diabetes. It is one of the leading causes of heart diseases, strokes, and other cardiovascular-related issues.

Answer 2

The statement that atherosclerosis is characterized by the hardening of blood vessel walls due to fatty deposits is true. Atherosclerosis involves plaque build-up that can lead to serious health issues like heart attacks and stroke. Factors such as diet, exercise, and genetics all play a role in the development of this condition.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement that the hardening of blood vessel walls resulting from fatty deposits in the vessels is called atherosclerosis is true. Atherosclerosis is indeed a condition where the arteries become narrowed and hardened due to a buildup of plaque on the artery walls. Plaque formation is primarily composed of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood.

Over time, as plaque accumulates, it can lead to significant health problems, including heart attack and stroke due to the restricted blood flow. The risk factors that increase the chance of developing atherosclerosis include unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, obesity, smoking, age, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and genetic predisposition.

Figure 20.14 Atherosclerosis illustrates this condition well by showing both fatty, calcified deposits and other forms of plaque, like connective tissue build-up within the artery walls. This can decrease the elasticity of the arteries, contributing to the disease's progression and associated health risks.