Health 12-2 vocab and review

Atherosclerosis

If the level of LDL cholesterol in your blood is continually high, you could develop atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a condition in which an artery wall hardens and thickens due to plaque buildup.

What is low-density lipoprotein? What is high-density lipoprotein?

Low-density lipoproteins carry cholesterol to body tissues for use or storage. LDL is called "bad cholesterol" because it may become a component of plaque. High-density lipoproteins pick up excess cholesterol from body tissues and artery walls and carry it to the liver. HDL is called "good cholesterol" because it cleans your arteries of excess cholesterol.

Describe three ways you can help keep your cardiovascular system healthy.

To help maintain cardiovascular health, you should exercise regularly; eat a nutrient-rich, balanced diet; and avoid smoking.

plaque

a substance that builds up in artery walls

arrhythmia

irregular heartbeat

low-density proteins (LDL)

carry cholesterol to body tissues for use or storage. LDL is called "bad cholesterol" because it may become a component of plaque.

What are two factors that contribute to cardiovascular disease that may begin in your teens?

heredity and diet

High-density lipoproteins (HDL)

pick up excess cholesterol from body tissues and artery walls and carry it to the liver. HDL is called "good cholesterol" because it cleans your arteries of excess cholesterol.

What is one symptom of arrhythmia?

the inability of the pacemaker to regulate heartbeat.