Scottish Highers Human Biology Blood Glucose Levels: Discuss the causes, development

Question

Discuss the causes, development and associated health problems of atherosclerosis.

**Causes**

1. A significant contributor to atherosclerosis is the excessive intake of fat and cholesterol in the diet, which leads to increased levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and decreased levels of HDL (high-density lipoprotein).
2. A sedentary lifestyle can exacerbate this condition due to lack of exercise.
3. Genetic factors such as familial hypercholesterolemia also play a critical role.
4. Chronic high blood glucose levels from diabetes mellitus can lead to vascular damage.

**Development**

1. Atherosclerosis begins with the accumulation of fatty deposits and fibrous materials (cholesterol) beneath the endothelium of blood vessels.
2. Over time, this causes the artery walls to thicken and narrow.
3. The reduction of lumen size restricts blood flow and decreases oxygen supply to tissues.
4. Loss of elasticity in the arterial walls further complicates the pathophysiology.

**Health Problems**

1. Atherosclerosis can lead to hypertension due to increased resistance in blood vessels.
2. It may also cause cardiovascular diseases such as coronary heart disease (CHD), heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral vascular disease (PVD). Specific examples include angina and strokes.

Discuss the causes, development and associated health problems of atherosclerosis - Scottish Highers Human Biology - Question 13 - 2016

Worked Solution & Example Answer:Discuss the causes, development and associated health problems of atherosclerosis - Scottish Highers Human Biology - Question 13 - 2016

Discuss the causes of atherosclerosis.

Discuss the development of atherosclerosis.

Discuss the associated health problems of atherosclerosis.

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