Causes of Cardiovascular Disease
Causes of cardiovascular disease involve a combination of lifestyle, genetic, and environmental factors. The most common causes include atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, smoking, unhealthy diet, and physical inactivity.
Atherosclerosis is the process by which fatty deposits accumulate on artery walls, forming plaques. These plaques narrow the arteries and reduce blood flow to organs. If a plaque ruptures, it can trigger a blood clot, leading to a heart attack or stroke.
High blood pressure (hypertension) forces the heart to work harder and damages arteries over time. It contributes to the development of heart failure, aneurysms, and kidney disease.
Smoking is a major contributor. It damages the lining of the arteries, increases blood pressure, and reduces oxygen in the blood — all of which accelerate cardiovascular decline.
High cholesterol, especially low-density lipoprotein (LDL or “bad” cholesterol), plays a significant role. Excess LDL cholesterol sticks to artery walls, contributing to plaque formation.
Diabetes — particularly poorly controlled — significantly raises the risk of cardiovascular disease. High blood sugar levels damage blood vessels and promote inflammation.
Obesity and sedentary lifestyle are also leading causes. Being overweight puts strain on the heart, raises blood pressure, and is often accompanied by metabolic syndrome (a cluster of risk factors).
Causes of Cardiovascular Disease
Other contributors include:
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Chronic stress and poor sleep
- Air pollution and environmental toxins
- Family history or genetic conditions affecting heart structure or function
Understanding the causes of cardiovascular disease is essential for prevention. Addressing risk factors early — even before symptoms appear — can reduce the chance of heart attacks, strokes, and other complications later in life.
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