95: What is Atherosclerosis and How to Prevent it

This week's episode is about atherosclerosis, a condition that leads to cardiovascular disease. Buck explains the role of cholesterol and lipoproteins in the development of atherosclerosis. He emphasizes the importance of understanding this topic as cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death. The conversation covers the different types of lipoproteins, such as HDL and LDL, and their association with atherosclerosis. Buck also discusses the significance of apolipoprotein B (APO-B) in measuring the risk of cardiovascular disease. He explains how APO-B can penetrate the blood vessel wall and trigger an immune response, leading to the formation of plaque and potential heart attacks. Buck recommends keeping APO-B levels below 60 milligrams per deciliter to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. He also mentions the importance of testing for lipoprotein little A (Lp(a)) levels, as high levels of Lp(a) are a major risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.