Final answer:
Stenosis, the narrowing of blood vessels, is commonly caused by atherosclerosis, which is a buildup of plaque within the arteries. Health conditions like hypertension significantly increase the risk of atherosclerosis and subsequent stenosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Stenosis is a narrowing of the blood vessels, which can lead to a reduction in blood flow. One common cause of stenosis, especially in the coronary arteries, is atherosclerosis, a condition in which plaque buildup occurs within the arteries. Atherosclerosis involves the accumulation of plaque, which is made up of cholesterol, fatty substances, calcium, and other components that adhere to the artery walls. This buildup starts in childhood and progresses throughout life, but its progression can be managed through healthy lifestyle choices and medication. Hypertension, or persistently high blood pressure, is also known to greatly increase the risk of atherosclerosis and subsequently lead to stenosis.