Atherosclerosis primarily targets the ________.

Atherosclerosis primarily affects arterial blood vessels because it is a condition characterized by the buildup of plaques, which are made up of fat, cholesterol, and other substances. These plaques accumulate on the inner walls of the arteries, leading to a narrowing and hardening of the arteries, which can restrict blood flow and result in cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.

The process of atherosclerosis particularly targets large and medium-sized arteries, which are critical in supplying oxygen-rich blood to various organs and tissues throughout the body. Arterial walls have specific structural characteristics that make them more susceptible to the buildup of these plaques, especially in areas of turbulent blood flow or where the endothelial layer has been damaged.

In contrast, capillary beds, which are microscopic vessels responsible for nutrient and gas exchange, are not the primary sites of atherosclerosis. The splanchnic bed refers to the vascular system that supplies the abdominal organs, and while it can be affected by atherosclerosis, the disease itself specifically targets arteries primarily. Venous blood vessels, which return deoxygenated blood to the heart, are not involved in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis, as this condition primarily occurs within the arterial system where high-pressure blood flow prevails. Hence