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What is a primary characteristic of Atherosclerosis?

  1. Healthy blood vessels

  2. Deposits of fatty material on artery walls

  3. Increased blood circulation

  4. Clear arteries with no blockages

The correct answer is: Deposits of fatty material on artery walls

A primary characteristic of atherosclerosis is the presence of deposits of fatty material, known as plaques, on the walls of arteries. These plaques consist of cholesterol, fats, and other substances, which accumulate over time and can lead to the narrowing and hardening of the arteries. This process can impede blood flow, increase blood pressure, and ultimately elevate the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. Recognizing this characteristic is crucial for understanding the development and implications of atherosclerosis in cardiovascular health. Other characteristics, such as healthy blood vessels, clear arteries, or increased blood circulation, do not describe atherosclerosis; rather, they represent states of vascular health that atherosclerosis negatively impacts.