Which condition is characterized by the presence of plaque in the arteries?

Atherosclerosis is a condition that is specifically characterized by the buildup of plaque within the arterial walls. This plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood. Over time, as the plaque accumulates, it narrows the arteries, restricting blood flow and leading to various cardiovascular problems.

This condition is often progressive and can result in serious complications, including heart attacks and strokes, as it significantly affects the heart's and other organs' ability to receive adequate oxygen and nutrients through the blood.

In contrast, angina refers to chest pain that occurs when the heart muscle doesn't receive enough oxygen, typically a symptom of underlying atherosclerosis but not the condition itself. Myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, is the result of a blockage in the blood supply to the heart muscle, often caused by atherosclerosis. Cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle itself, which can affect its size, shape, and ability to pump blood, but it is not directly characterized by plaque buildup in the arteries. Therefore, atherosclerosis is the correct answer as it directly describes the condition of having plaque in the arteries.