onÂ·colÂ·oÂ·gy. The study or science dealing with the physical, chemical, and biologic properties and features of neoplasms, including causation, pathogenesis, and treatment. oncology. /onÂ·colÂ·oÂ·gy/ (ong-kolÂ´ah-je) the sum of knowledge regarding tumors; the study of tumors.
Atherosclerosis in Your 40s and 50s. In men after age 50, the rate of atherosclerosis development accelerates markedly. In women, this increased risk is delayed until age 60. By this time, even if you don't have any evidence of atherosclerosis, your lifetime chances of developing its complications are greater than 50%.therosclerosis in Your 20s and 30s. Atherosclerosis is the last thing on most young adults' minds. But early forms of atherosclerosis are frequently present in our 20s and 30s. Almost no one suffers complications from atherosclerosis at this age.
Some hardening of the arteries is normal as you age. Exactly how atherosclerosis begins or what causes it isn't known, but some theories have been proposed. Many scientists believe plaque begins when an arteryâs inner lining (called the endothelium) becomes damaged. Three possible causes of damage are: Elevated levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood; High blood pressure; Cigarette smoking; Smoking has a big role in the growth of atherosclerosis in the coronary arteries, aorta and arteries in the legs. It makes fatty deposits more likely to form and to grow bigger and faster. This content was last reviewed April 2017.