Final answer:
Atherosclerosis is a condition causing the buildup of plaques inside arteries, leading to hardened artery walls and restricted blood flow, which increases the risk of heart disease, heart attack, or stroke.
Step-by-step explanation:
Atherosclerosis is a heart condition characterized by the buildup of fatty materials, known as plaque, within the arteries. These plaques consist of cholesterol, white blood cells, and other fats. As they accumulate, they can harden arterial walls and narrow the artery's lumen, leading to a reduction in blood flow. This condition is a primary cause of heart disease, commonly resulting in coronary artery disease, which is the leading cause of death worldwide. A key consequence of atherosclerosis is the potential for the arteries supplying blood to the heart and brain to become obstructed, greatly increasing the risk of a heart attack or stroke. Factors such as high levels of LDL cholesterol, diabetes, and hypertension are associated with the development of this condition.
Plaque buildup can lead to ischemia, where tissues receive insufficient oxygen, and, consequently, can cause chest pain known as angina pectoris. Moreover, if arteries become significantly narrowed or blocked, it can result in myocardial infarction (MI). Early detection and lifestyle changes, alongside medical interventions, can help manage and potentially reduce the progression of atherosclerosis.