Which statement best defines atherosclerosis?

The definition that best describes atherosclerosis is the presence of fatty deposits on the artery lining. Atherosclerosis is a condition characterized by the buildup of fatty substances, cholesterol, and other cellular debris within the walls of arteries, leading to plaque formation. This accumulation narrows the arteries over time, which can impede blood flow and contribute to serious cardiovascular events such as heart attacks or strokes.

While thickening of the arterial wall can occur due to various factors, including atherosclerosis itself, it is more accurate to describe the disease by its hallmark feature, which is the presence of these fatty deposits. Therefore, the defining aspect of atherosclerosis hinges on the development of plaques that disrupt normal blood flow, rather than just the thickening of the arteries.