A 58-yeаr-оld pаtient with а histоry оf hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and type 2 diabetes presents to the emergency department with chest pressure that radiates to the left arm and jaw. The nurse understands that long-term uncontrolled risk factors contribute to the development of atherosclerotic plaque in the coronary arteries. Which statement best explains why plaque buildup in the coronary arteries is dangerous?