Atherosclerosis is a disease where fatty material called plaque builds up in the inner lining of arteries and makes them less flexible. Plaque buildup reduces the amount of blood and oxygen that gets to vital organs. Atherosclerosis can occur anywhere in your body. Complications of atherosclerosis include: stroke or TIA in the brain, angina (chest pain), heart attack, sudden death, heart failure, kidney failure, erectile dysfunction and PAD (peripheral artery disease).