What is a major risk associated with high levels of LDL cholesterol in your bloodstream?

High levels of LDL cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, are closely linked to an increased risk of heart disease. LDL cholesterol can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. This buildup narrows the arteries and restricts blood flow, which can eventually result in serious cardiovascular problems, such as heart attacks and strokes.

The connection between LDL cholesterol and heart disease is well established in medical literature. Elevated LDL levels indicate that there is an excess of cholesterol available to deposit in arterial walls, which not only impacts blood flow but also triggers inflammatory processes that can further exacerbate heart disease.

Other options may present health risks, but they are not directly tied to LDL cholesterol levels in the same way that heart disease is. For instance, while diabetes can influence cholesterol levels, it is not caused by elevated LDL cholesterol itself. Similarly, liver and kidney issues are associated with different pathophysiological mechanisms.