What does atherosclerosis primarily affect?

Atherosclerosis primarily affects the blood vessels, leading to inflammation, thickening, and hardening of their walls. This condition results from the buildup of plaques within the arterial walls, which can restrict blood flow and contribute to cardiovascular diseases. The thickening of the vessel walls impairs their elasticity and can cause the arteries to narrow, increasing the risk of blockages that may lead to heart attacks or strokes.

Understanding atherosclerosis in this context emphasizes its nature as a chronic inflammatory process rather than merely a disruption of heart rate, improvement of blood flow, or contraction patterns of the heart. While these other options may relate to cardiovascular health in some aspects, they do not specifically address the underlying processes that define atherosclerosis. Recognizing that this condition involves both inflammation and structural changes in the vessels is crucial for grasping its implications for overall cardiovascular health.