Studies have shown that high cholesterol causes the arteries to harden. The hardening of arteries are expected to cause an increase in the risk of heart attacks. Is hardening of the arteries a confounder in the relationship between high cholesterol and risk of heart attacks? Explain why or why not.
Yes, hardening of the arteries is a confounder in the relationship between high cholesterol and risk of heart attacks. Hardening of the arteries is commonly called as atherosclerosis. It occurs when fat, cholesterol, and other substances build up in the walls of arteries. These deposits are collectively called as plaques. Over the time period, these plaques can narrow or they can completely block the arteries that cause severe problems throughout the body. Normally, high blood cholesterol levels can cause hardening of the arteries. These blockages stop the blood and oxygen supply to the tissues. This can result in damage or tissue death. It is the common cause of heart attack and stroke as well.
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