Introduction to Atherosclerosis
摘要
Atherosclerosis, a vascular complication, entails the buildup of plaque within arteries, comprising cholesterol and cellular debris [1]. This process often leads to restricted blood flow, posing significant risks of life-threatening cardiovascular diseases such as thrombosis, myocardial infarction (MI), and stroke. While atherosclerosis and its complications can affect individuals of any age, those above 30 face heightened risks [1–3]. It’s projected that global cardiovascular-related deaths may surpass 30 million annually by 2030 [4]. Surprisingly, while commonly viewed as a modern disease, descriptions of atherosclerosis can be found in ancient texts dating back over a thousand years. Recent studies, including CT scans of mummified remains dating to 3000 BCE, provide evidence of arterial calcification, indicating the presence of atherosclerosis in ancient populations. Despite this historical awareness, treating atherosclerosis remains a challenge [5].