[algoatecorn]

Think of it this way. We are all accumulating plaque. Three things play a large role in the rate at which we accumulate plaque: bodyweight, diet, activity level. (Yes, I'm aware there are more variables, but these are most pervasive and influential)

It used to be that we managed these variables quite well until middle age. Now, we flout them at an early age, setting the course for early heart attacks.

[hammock]

Arterial plaque buildup can be ameliorated and reversed. I wouldn’t want anyone to take away from your comment that it can’t be

[algoatecorn]

That's an important correction, thanks.

[kian]

how?

[hammock]

Through the maintenance of ideal CV risk factors and lifestyle behaviors. Once the atherosclerosis advances to the point of being fibrotic or scarred, it becomes harder/perhaps impossible to reverse that physical condition, but even then, if you can't quite restore the tissue damage, you can restore your health back to previous levels as your body adapts to its new form.

Very similar possibilites/outcomes are also observed in lungs when people quit smoking, and in the liver when people change their lifestyle or stop drinking.

The human body is incredible

[kian]

Thank you for the response. I had no idea you could reduce plaques before fibrosis/scarring. How does one test for the degree of the latteR?

[hammock]

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arteriosclero...

The calcium scan (towards the bottom) would show the extent of calcification, which is a sign of advanced atherosclerosis