Atherosclerosis
Also called: atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease
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Description
The build-up of fats, cholesterol, and other substances in and on the artery walls.
A build up of cholesterol plaque in the walls of arteries causing obstruction of blood flow. Plaques may rupture causing acute occlusion of the artery by clot.
Very common
More than 3 million US cases per year
Treatable by a medical professional
Requires a medical diagnosis
Lab tests or imaging often required
Chronic: can last for years or be lifelong
