Artery disease refers to any condition that affects the blood vessels, specifically the arteries. The most common type is atherosclerosis, which occurs when plaque builds up inside the arteries, narrowing them and reducing or blocking blood flow. This can lead to various health problems such as angina (chest pain), heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease (PAD). Artery disease is often caused by factors such as high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. Treatment may involve medication to lower cholesterol or blood pressure, lifestyle changes (such as exercise and diet), and in some cases surgery to open blocked arteries or replace damaged ones with grafts.