Last reviewed: May 12, 2026 Last updated: May 12, 2026

Written by: Jay Hastings , CEO of PlexusDx

Jay Hastings is the CEO of PlexusDx, a precision health company focused on genetic testing, blood biomarker insights, and personalized wellness recommendations. He has more than 20 years of experience across healthcare innovation, genomics, laboratory operations, healthcare investing, and strategic finance. His work has included scaling healthcare startups, leading CLIA lab integrations, and helping expand consumer access to precision health tools.

Medically reviewed by: Jayden Lee, PharmD, EMBA

Jayden Lee, PharmD, EMBA, is the PlexusDx Medical Science Liaison with a PharmD and MBA specializing in pharmacogenomics and clinical product development, with a proven ability to bridge the gap between genomic research and practical patient outcomes. Dr. Lee has more than 10 years of professional experience in clinical pharmacy, academia, and research.

Artery Hardening: What causes arteries to harden into atherosclerosis within the human body?

Modern lifestyles might seem like the sole cause but the real situation involves more complicated factors. We need to examine the essential genetic elements that contribute significantly to this condition and understand how knowing your genetic risks enables you to protect your heart health actively. Medical records show that hardened arteries have been a health concern through history with documented evidence from ancient Egyptian times. Contemporary diets and sedentary behaviors increase atherosclerosis rates yet genetic predispositions also play a major role in determining individual risk to this disease. The EDNRA and EDNRB gene variants can work together with personal exercise routines to establish your likelihood of developing artery hardening. The identification of genetic markers enables you to understand your body's response to various environmental factors which helps you customize your lifestyle to reduce potential risks. Identifying genetic factors associated with artery hardening enables you to create an individualized plan for heart health maintenance. Genetic testing helps you discover your distinct genetic risk score using more than 50,000 genetic variants to make better health decisions.

Key Takeaways:

  • Genetic elements explain around 60% of why individuals differ in their susceptibility to atherosclerosis.
  • The development of artery hardening depends heavily on various modifiable risk factors including high blood pressure, cholesterol levels, diabetes, obesity, smoking habits, exercise frequency, dietary choices and aging.
  • Your lifetime progression of atherosclerosis can be influenced by the lifestyle decisions you make regarding your diet and exercise habits.
  • Personalized dietary and lifestyle changes can be developed through genetic testing based on your specific genetic makeup.

The buildup of plaque on artery walls which leads to hardening of arteries constitutes a major health concern because it causes around half of the fatalities in Western countries. The condition of atherosclerosis usually does not show symptoms until it reaches advanced stages but this delay does not prevent it from causing serious outcomes such as heart attacks and strokes. A heart-healthy lifestyle becomes essential to fight against artery hardening and decrease cardiovascular complication risks. The progression of atherosclerosis can be prevented and heart health protected through smoking cessation combined with healthy eating and regular exercise. The study of genetic factors in artery hardening reveals how our genes interact with environmental elements to create individualized cardiovascular health strategies. Using genetic test results enables you to take preventive actions against heart-related risk factors while making choices that benefit your cardiac health plan. You can improve your cardiovascular health through the Precision Health & Wellness tests available from PlexusDx. Discover on PlexusDx.com or through Amazon and Walmart how genetic testing contributes to your heart health optimization and enables you to live a long and vital life. Start utilizing genetic science today to create a healthier future for yourself.

Medical and Editorial Standards

Medical review process: This article was reviewed for medical accuracy, scientific clarity, evidence alignment, and appropriate discussion of genetics, medications, supplements, biomarkers, and health-related claims.

Sources and evidence: PlexusDx educational content is developed using peer-reviewed research, clinical literature, reputable medical references, and, where applicable, public health or regulatory guidance. References are included at the end of the article when scientific, medical, or health-related claims are discussed.

Commercial transparency: PlexusDx offers genetic testing, blood biomarker testing, personalized supplement recommendations, and related precision wellness services. Product mentions are intended to help readers understand available options and should not be interpreted as medical advice.

Important disclaimer: PlexusDx educational content is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about medications, supplements, genetic testing, lab testing, or health-related care.

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