Aging and atherosclerosis. Teasing out the contributions of time, secondary aging, and primary aging.

Aging and atherosclerosis are inextricably intertwined, time being required for the expression of both. A multi-dimensional strategy can be formulated whereby atherogenesis may be attenuated, allowing individuals to reach their maximum lifetime potential before atherosclerosis reaches the clinical horizon. Current theory would suggest that primary attention be directed toward conventional risk factor modifications via hygienic lifestyle measures: aerobic exercise, reduction of saturated fat and cholesterol intake, control of blood pressure, and elimination of cigarette smoking.