Modelling the spread of atherosclerosis considering relapse and linear treatment

Abstract

Atherosclerosis is a narrowing of the arteries due to a build-up of plaque in the artery walls. One of the reasons for the spread of atherosclerosis is the widespread of improper lifestyle in a population because of the tendency to follow the improper lifestyle of people in the surrounding environment. Atherosclerosis can cause complications such as heart disease, stroke, etc. This study aims to construct a model for the spread of atherosclerosis among human population by considering relapse and linear treatment rates. The model was then analyzed analytically and numerically. Analytical study reveals the existence and local stability criteria of the equilibrium points, determine the basic reproduction numbers and investigate the existence of bifurcations of the constructed model using the center-manifold theorem. Some numerical simulations were conducted for some possible prevention scenarios in the field.