Final answer:
Common sites of arteriosclerosis include the coronary arteries, carotid arteries, and peripheral arteries, and these conditions are often due to factors like high cholesterol and hypertension.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common sites of arteriosclerosis include the heart, specifically the coronary arteries, which are prone to atherosclerotic plaque buildup leading to heart attacks. The carotid arteries in the neck, which supply blood to the brain, can also become affected, raising the risk for strokes. Additionally, the peripheral arteries, particularly those in the legs, can develop arteriosclerosis, potentially causing peripheral arterial disease (PAD).
Arteriosclerosis and atherosclerosis are conditions that tend to progress with age and are characterized by the hardening and loss of elasticity of the arterial walls. Factors contributing to these conditions include high cholesterol, hypertension, smoking, diabetes, and obesity. Atherosclerosis specifically refers to the buildup of fatty plaques within the artery walls and is a type of arteriosclerosis. Both conditions can have serious health implications when they significantly impede blood circulation.