In cardiovascular health, what does atherosclerotic plaque increase the risk of?

Atherosclerotic plaque plays a significant role in cardiovascular health, primarily by increasing the risk of various cardiovascular events. This type of plaque forms in the arteries due to the accumulation of fats, cholesterol, and other substances, leading to a condition known as atherosclerosis. As the plaque builds up, it narrows the arteries and restricts blood flow. This restriction can ultimately result in serious health issues, such as heart attacks and strokes, which are classified as cardiovascular events.

The risk arises because the plaques can rupture, causing thrombosis (blood clots) that can either block blood flow entirely or break off and travel to other parts of the body. The direct relationship between atherosclerotic plaque and cardiovascular events underpins the importance of managing factors that contribute to plaque development, such as high cholesterol, smoking, and hypertension.

While the other options touch on various health issues, they do not have the direct connection with atherosclerotic plaque that cardiovascular events do. Pulmonary function disorders, skeletal injuries, and neurological diseases may arise from other factors or conditions, but the specific risk associated with atherosclerotic plaque is fundamentally tied to the cardiovascular system and the potential for acute events linked to the integrity of the vascular structure.