转自：贵州日报 随着健康体检的普及，"颈动脉斑块"正成为越来越多市民体检报告上的"高频词"。贵阳市第一人民医院 心血管内科主任、泛血管中心主任医师鲁玉明提醒，斑块是身体发出的一个预警信号，早发现、早干 预，是守护脑血管健康最经济有效的方法。 为何年纪不大血管就堵了 48岁的王成（化名）是一家科技公司的中层管理者，平时自认身体不错，只是工作压力大、应酬多，偶 尔感觉头晕，他也没在意。直到公司组织体检，颈动脉超声报告上"双侧颈动脉多发斑块，最大处狭窄 约30%"的提示让他瞬间慌了神。 "长期精神压力大、睡眠不足、饮食不规律、缺乏运动，这些因素会引发体内慢性炎症反应和代谢紊 乱，显著加速动脉粥样硬化进程。斑块年轻化已成为心脑血管疾病防控面临的新挑战。"鲁医生说，斑 块是身体发出的一个重要预警信号。健康的血管内壁光滑，血流顺畅。但若血液中的"坏胆固醇"（低密 度脂蛋白）过多，就像水中杂质超标，加上高血压、糖尿病、吸烟等因素"损伤"血管内壁，杂质更容易 沉积下来，形成血管内中膜增厚，甚至粥样斑块。 "斑块的形成是缓慢、无声的过程。"鲁医生说，斑块特别"青睐"有高血压、高血脂、高血糖的人群，以 及长期吸烟、肥胖、缺乏运动 ...

Core Insights - The public's awareness of carotid artery plaques has increased significantly, with detection rates of 40% in individuals over 40 years old and up to 100% in those over 60 in China [1] Group 1: Understanding Carotid Artery Plaques - Carotid artery plaques are accumulations of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and cellular debris on the inner walls of the carotid arteries, which can narrow the passage for blood flow to the brain [1] - A study by Peking University found that approximately 20% of over 10 million surveyed adults in China have carotid artery plaques, indicating a widespread health concern [1] Group 2: Causes of Carotid Artery Plaques - The formation of carotid artery plaques is closely linked to lifestyle choices, genetic factors, and aging [2][3] - High-fat and high-salt diets, lack of exercise, and a family history of cardiovascular diseases increase the risk of plaque formation [3] Group 3: Detection and Management - Ultrasound examinations are the most common method for detecting hidden plaques, and regular health check-ups are recommended [4] - Carotid artery plaques can be reversed through lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, along with regular moderate exercise [5] - Regular health check-ups are crucial for individuals with a family history of cardiovascular diseases or chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes [6] - Adjusting lifestyle, including dietary changes and exercise, can help manage and control carotid artery plaques, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases [6]

Core Insights - The prevalence of carotid artery plaques is increasing, with detection rates of 40% in individuals over 40 years old and up to 100% in those over 60 years old in China [1][4] - Carotid artery plaques are formed by the accumulation of substances like fat, cholesterol, calcium, and cellular debris, which can narrow blood vessels and potentially lead to serious health issues such as stroke and cardiovascular diseases [1][3] Summary by Sections What are Carotid Artery Plaques? - Carotid artery plaques are akin to impurities that accumulate in the arteries, similar to scale buildup in pipes, which can obstruct blood flow to the brain [1][3] How are Carotid Artery Plaques Formed? - The formation of carotid artery plaques is closely linked to lifestyle choices, genetic factors, and aging [5][6] - High-fat and high-salt diets, lack of exercise, and a family history of cardiovascular diseases increase the risk of plaque formation [6] Detection and Management of Carotid Artery Plaques - Ultrasound examinations are the most common method for detecting hidden plaques, and regular health check-ups are recommended [8][10] - Lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, along with regular moderate exercise, can help reduce harmful cholesterol levels and prevent plaque formation [8][10] - Regular health screenings are crucial for individuals with a family history of cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, or diabetes [10] - In cases of severe blockage or high stroke risk, medical interventions such as carotid endarterectomy or stenting may be recommended to restore blood flow [11]