Atherosclerosis, the most common part of hardening of the arteries, is characterized by the presence of cholesterol-rich arterial thickenings (atheromas). This progressive disease begins with the intracellular deposition of lipids, mainly cholesterol esters, in the smooth muscle cells of the arterial wall. These lesions become calcified plaques, fibrous which narrow and can eventually block the arteries. The Blood clots are also more likely to happen that may stop the blood flow and deprive the tissues of oxygen.