In today’s health-conscious world, we often hear about the importance of vascular health, exercise, and a balanced diet. But there’s one condition that continues to silently threaten lives —atherosclerosis, the build-up of plaque in our arteries. As a vascular surgeon, I’ve seen firsthand the dangers this condition poses, and how crucial it is to understand its development, diagnosis, and prevention.
Atherosclerosis is a condition in which the arteries become narrowed and hardened due to the accumulation of plaque. This plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood. Over time, these deposits stick to the artery walls, restricting blood flow to vital organs and tissues.
Where this occurs in the body determines the type of health risks involved:
Research has shown that genetics play a significant role in the risk of developing atherosclerosis. A significant portion of atherosclerosis risk, approximately 40%, can be attributed to genetic variations. This insight has been made possible by advances in genetic research and large-scale studies.
Atherosclerosis is a complex, multi-step process that develops over years or even decades. It is mainly driven by lipoproteins (fat-carrying proteins) that accumulate in the artery walls. However, the process involves a number of other factors, such as:
While many plaques remain stable and cause little to no symptoms (known as subclinical atherosclerosis), others can become unstable and rupture, potentially causing life-threatening events like heart attacks or strokes.
One of the biggest challenges with atherosclerosis is that it often goes unnoticed for years. Unlike other conditions, the arteries do not have pain receptors, so plaque can build up without any warning signs. Most people don’t realise they have a problem until they experience symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or even a major cardiovascular event.
Diagnosis usually involves imaging techniques like vascular ultrasound or angiography, which help detect the presence of plaques. Blood tests and risk scoring models also assist in assessing an individual’s likelihood of developing atherosclerosis. However, predicting when a plaque will rupture—an event that often triggers heart attacks or strokes—remains a difficult task for clinicians.
Because of the silent nature of atherosclerosis, prevention and early detection are crucial. Lifestyle factors play a huge role in preventing plaque build-up, including:
Atherosclerosis is a progressive and potentially life-threatening condition, but it’s one that can often be prevented with proactive care. Regular check-ups, vascular screenings, and lifestyle changes can go a long way in maintaining healthy arteries and reducing the risk of plaque-related complications.
If you’re concerned about your vascular health or want to learn more about atherosclerosis, speak with a healthcare professional who can help assess your risk and guide you toward prevention strategies that work for you.
Find out how certain healthy lifestyle factors affect our blood vessels and overall health. Perhaps scientific facts will inspire you to make changes.
