The arteries carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the body tissues. Arterial walls have elastic fibers, which normally stretch in rhythm with the heartbeat. Arteriosclerosis encompasses a group of disorders that cause thickening and stiffening of the arterial walls. Atherosclerosis is the most common form of arteriosclerosis, and remains the precipitating cause of most heart attacks and strokes. Several modifiable factors increase the risk for atherosclerosis.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a significant risk factor for the development of atherosclerosis, notes MayoClinic.com. High blood pressure inflames the lining of the arteries, accelerating the development of atherosclerosis. The level of risk correlates with the degree of elevation of the blood pressure. Controlling high blood pressure with medication, a healthy diet and exercise decreases the level of risk for atherosclerosis.
Abnormal Blood Fats
The medical reference text "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine" explains that abnormal levels of various blood fats contribute to the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. Abnormally elevated total blood cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol increase the level of risk for atherosclerosis. An abnormally low level of HDL-cholesterol--the "good" cholesterol--also proves an important contributing risk factor. Correction of abnormal blood fat levels with dietary adjustments, exercise, and medication can arrest or significantly slow the progression of atherosclerosis.
Diabetes Mellitus
Insulin resistance is the underlying cause of type 2 diabetes mellitus. With insulin resistance, the body tissues develop insensitivity to the effects of the blood sugar-lowering hormone insulin. The American Heart Association states that insulin resistance is a significant contributing factor to the development of atherosclerosis. The metabolic imbalances of type 2 diabetes are amenable to correction and control with glucose management, correction of blood lipid abnormalities, a healthy diet and regular exercise. Prevention and control of type 2 diabetes reduces the risk for atherosclerotic complications.
Obesity
The American Heart Association reports that obesity is a risk factor for atherosclerosis due to its association with various other abnormalities. Obesity increases the risk for abnormally elevated blood cholesterol, insulin resistance and high blood pressure. Obesity also often compromises the capacity for regular physical activity. Managing body weight can significantly influence other contributing factors associated with atherosclerosis.
Smoking
"The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals" explains that nicotine and other chemicals in tobacco smoke damage the cells that line the arteries. This damage greatly accelerates the development of atherosclerosis. In addition, smoking contributes to abnormal fat levels in the blood. Stopping smoking significantly reduces the risk for atherosclerotic disorders including coronary artery disease and peripheral arterial disease.
Inactivity
Physical activity has a protective effect against atherosclerotic disease. The American Heart Association reports that regular physical activity can help lower total blood cholesterol, increase HDL-cholesterol and lower blood pressure. Each of these factors decreases the risk for atherosclerosis. Regular physical activity also helps manage body weight and blood sugar level.
References
- "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 16th Edition"; Dennis L. Kasper, M.D., et al., Editors; 2004
- American Heart Association: About Cholesterol
- American Heart Association: Why Cholesterol Matters
- American Heart Association: Lifestyle Changes
- American Heart Association: What's the Connection Between Type 2 Diabetes and My Heart?
