Kaplan Nursing Entrance Practice Exam 2026 – The All-in-One Guide to Exam Success!

Excess cholesterol in the blood is predominantly linked to atherosclerosis, which is a condition characterized by the buildup of fatty deposits, including cholesterol, in the walls of arteries. This accumulation leads to the formation of plaques that can narrow the arteries, restrict blood flow, and increase the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.

In atherosclerosis, the presence of high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, plays a critical role. Over time, these plaques can become hardened and lead to chronic inflammation, further complicating the cardiovascular system. This association underscores the importance of monitoring cholesterol levels as part of cardiovascular disease prevention and management strategies.

While other conditions such as hypertension, arrhythmia, and congestive heart failure are significant cardiovascular issues, they do not have the same direct causal relationship with excess cholesterol levels as atherosclerosis does. Hence, it is critical to understand that the management of cholesterol levels is particularly emphasized in preventing and treating atherosclerosis.