Hardening of the arteries is a leading cause of sickness and death in the United States. In 2005, roughly 870,000 people in this country died of cardiovascular disease largely caused by atherosclerotic problems.
Atherosclerosis can lead to both heart attacks and stroke. And it can also do damage to the legs, kidneys, and intestines. When plaque hardens and narrows arteries that supply blood to the legs, they may cramp and feel weak when you walk or run. When atherosclerosis affects arteries to the kidney and intestines, the inadequate blood flow can damage organ tissues.
