Chapter 2 Human Biology

 Diseases of the cardiovascular system include atherosclerosis and hypertension.  Atherosclerosis is a condition in which an artery wall thickens as a result of the buildup of fatty materials. One of these fatty materials is cholesterol, a waxy substance.  Atherosclerosis results in a reduced flow of blood in the affected artery.  This condition may lead to a heart attack. A heart attack occurs when blood flow to part of the heart muscle is blocked.

 Cells die in the part of the heart that does not receive blood and oxygen. Which results in damage to the heart.  Treatment for mild atherosclerosis usually includes a low fat diet and moderate exercise program.  People with sever atherosclerosis may need to undergo surgery to unclog the blocked arteries.

 High blood pressure or hypertension is a disorder in which a person’s blood pressure is consistently higher than normal – usually defined as greater than 140/90.  Hypertension makes the heart work harder to pump blood throughout the body.  Over time both the heart and arteries can be severely damaged.

 To help maintain cardiovascular health, people should exercise regularly; eat a balanced diet low in saturated fats and trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium and avoid smoking.