The Epidemiology of Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis, while undeniably present in many people, is a difficult disease to identify due to the fact that it is generally asymptomatic. It is not until the danger is said and done that most people realize what is transpiring within their bodies and can begin the process of recovery and preventative measures.

Though it is different from person to person, the process of atherosclerosis begins in childhood with the development of fatty streaks.  With age, these fatty streaks develop into plaque formations.  However, it is not until the fifth or sixth decades of life that the clinical manifestations of this condition become prevalent.

Atherosclerosis is a key player in cardiovascular disease, with about 36 percent of the United States’ population having been diagnosed. So while ASVD can be detrimental to all parts of the body, the true danger of this disease is present in the form of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), an area-specific form of atherosclerosis.  About 14 million people experience CAD, and have undergone its related complications.  Notably, CAD continues to be the number one cause of death for individuals across the United States. 

Multiple factors are associated with the onset of CAD, some of which include race, sex and age.  For instance, CAD has appeared to affect African Americans and Asian Indians more drastically than Caucasians.  It has also been observed that men, opposed to women, lead the charts in CAD diagnoses.  However, age is indisputably the leading determinant of developing any form of atherosclerosis.  As was mentioned previously, the effects of this disease are not prominent until the latter half of one’s life.  Even so, it is important to note that while genetics and age may play a role in the acquisition of this disease, certain risk-factors such as hypertension, diet, tobacco, obesity and physical activity are contributing influences to the cause of ASVD.

While atherosclerosis is difficult to prematurely identify, being informed on the various facets of this disease could help contribute immensely to prevention tactics.  However, taking the time to be informed is just one step of a process; it is one step that must be followed by another. Step two…take action. Because living a healthy lifestyle is not just one step, it’s a journey. 

So start walking.