The Basics
What causes plaque in the arteries?
- Smoking
- High amounts of fat and cholesterol in the blood
- High blood pressure
- High levels of sugar in the blood (usually because of diabetes)
All of these factors can cause plaque to build up in the arteries. Over time, the plaque can narrow or completey block the arteries.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. To learn more about managing heart disease, visit these Web sites:
