Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis refers to the deposition of lipid components and inflammatory substances on the inner walls of arteries, forming plaque that resembles gruel, which narrows and hardens the arteries, impeding blood flow. It is the most common cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease, primarily affecting large and medium-sized arteries in the body, such as the coronary arteries, carotid arteries, cerebral arteries, and renal arteries. It is more common in middle-aged and elderly individuals over 40, with faster progression after age 49. The incidence is higher in men than in premenopausal women, while after menopause, the incidence is similar in both sexes. In recent years, the age of onset has shown a trend towards younger individuals.