Hardening of the arteries is known as:

The term for the hardening of the arteries is indeed atherosclerosis. This condition involves the buildup of fatty deposits, cholesterol, and other substances on the artery walls, leading to the narrowing and stiffening of these blood vessels. As arteries become hardened, they lose their elasticity and ability to expand and contract as blood flows through them. This can impede blood flow and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attack and stroke.

Understanding atherosclerosis is crucial because it is a major contributor to heart disease, one of the leading causes of death. The process often starts with damage to the arterial walls, which can be caused by high blood pressure, smoking, high cholesterol, or diabetes. Once the buildup occurs, it can lead to significant complications if not addressed.

This condition contrasts with the other options, which refer to different physiological or pathological processes. Venous narrowing pertains to a decrease in the diameter of veins rather than arteries. Micro-circulation describes the blood flow through the smallest blood vessels (capillaries, venules, and arterioles) and their role in nutrient and gas exchange, without direct reference to the hardening of arteries. Hypertension, while related to arterial health, signifies high blood pressure rather than the structural condition