Arteriosclerosis is a disease of the arteries, in which the walls of blood vessels become thick and hard and lose elasticity. This may affect the function of tissues and organs which normally depend on that artery to provide blood. Arteriosclerosis is the leading cause of death in the US.

Risk for arteriosclerosis increases with age; men are more at risk than women. Other risk factors include sedentary lifestyle, hypertension (high blood pressure), obesity, cigarette smoking, and diabetes mellitus. A family history of arteriosclerosis is also associated with heightened risk. Treatment includes regular exercise, low-fat diet, giving up smoking, and avoiding stress.

Atherosclerosis is a form of arteriosclerosis which is associated with cholesterol deposits.

Further Reading:

Article : "VASCULAR DEMENTIA"