Final answer:
The primary cause of cardiovascular disease, characterized by plaque buildup in artery walls, is atherosclerosis. This typically begins with damage to the artery's endothelial cells due to factors like high LDL cholesterol, hypertension, and other lifestyle risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary cause of the buildup of plaque in artery walls, a characteristic of cardiovascular disease, is atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis occurs when there is an accumulation of fatty substances, cholesterol, and other materials on the inner walls of arteries. This condition usually begins when low-density lipoproteins (LDLs), often referred to as 'bad' cholesterol, accumulate within the endothelial cells that line the artery walls, sparking inflammation. This inflammation in turn attracts white blood cells, contributing to plaque formation.
While the exact process of plaque formation is complex and multifactorial, key contributors include high-fat diets, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. These factors can cause damage to the endothelium or inner wall of the artery, which is crucial in the initial stages of plaque accumulation.
A major risk factor for atherosclerosis is hypertension, characterized by abnormally high blood pressure. This high pressure can stress the artery walls and promote plaque buildup, further contributing to the cycle of cardiovascular damage.