What is a major cause of atherosclerosis?

A major cause of atherosclerosis is indeed the build-up of fat deposits on artery walls. Atherosclerosis occurs when fats, cholesterol, and other substances accumulate in the walls of arteries, leading to the formation of plaques. These plaques can narrow the arteries, reduce blood flow, and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes.

This process typically begins with damage to the arterial lining, which can result from various factors including high blood pressure, tobacco use, and high cholesterol. Once this damage occurs, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol can enter the arterial wall, where it becomes oxidized. The oxidized LDL is recognized as a harmful substance by the immune system, triggering an inflammatory response that leads to the recruitment of immune cells, thus promoting further plaque formation. Over time, as plaques grow, they can calcify and harden, leading to significantly impaired blood flow.

Other choices such as a low cholesterol diet, increased exercise, and dehydration do not cause atherosclerosis. In fact, a low cholesterol diet and increased exercise are preventive measures that can help reduce the risk of developing atherosclerosis by lowering cholesterol levels and improving vascular health. Dehydration does not directly relate to the pathophysiology of