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Several risk factors play a part in the progression of atherosclerosis.

Some risk factors for athero you can control.

Key Risk Factors

Atherosclerosis (or "athero"), the buildup of plaque in the arteries, is a progressive disease, meaning that it tends to get worse as we age. However, there are a number of risk factors for athero, like high cholesterol, that can speed up the progression of the disease.

On their own, each of these risk factors can have serious consequences to your health. When combined, the negative effect on your health and your arteries increases dramatically.

The good news is that some of the risk factors, such as cigarette smoking, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, can be managed. Review the lists below to see if you have health factors that put you at an increased risk for heart disease and stroke, two frequent consequences of atherosclerosis. If you have one or more of these factors, talk with your doctor about what you can do to reduce your risk of athero.

Athero Risk Factors You Can Control

Athero Risk Factors You Cannot Control

If you have one or more of the risk factors above, the first step you should take is to talk with your doctor. He or she can help you chart your risks, and together you can plan what steps you may need to take to start taking care of your arteries.

In the meantime, find out what you can do to reduce the risk for athero, coronary heart disease, and stroke.

 

Explore Deep Inside an Artery

Watch the artery explorer movie and see how risk factors such as high cholesterol can contribute to athero.

Artery Explorer: the Movie takes you on a journey to see how risk factors such as high cholesterol help contribute to athero.

Watch the movie >>

 

Take Action Against Athero

The Athero Pledge is a personalized action plan you can use with your doctor to help slow the progression of atherosclerosis.

Take the pledge now >>