CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam 2026 - Free Radiography Practice Questions and Study Guide

The condition that is characterized by the thickening and hardening of artery walls, especially prevalent among older adults, is arteriosclerosis. As individuals age, the arteries become less flexible due to the buildup of collagen and other changes in the arterial wall structure. This can lead to increased blood pressure and reduced blood flow, which may contribute to various cardiovascular diseases.

Arteriosclerosis encompasses various forms of arterial stiffening and thickening but is often used generically to describe these age-related changes. It is important to understand that while atherosclerosis, which involves the buildup of plaques in the arteries, can also contribute to narrowing and hardening, the question focuses specifically on the general thickening and hardening of artery walls associated with aging, making arteriosclerosis the more appropriate term in this context.

The other options refer to different conditions: aneurysm involves a bulging and weakening of the arterial wall, while venous insufficiency pertains to the veins rather than arteries. Atherosclerosis, while related, specifically involves the formation of fatty deposits and is a distinct process from the general stiffening described by arteriosclerosis.