Causes of atherosclerosis include all of the following EXCEPT:

Atherosclerosis is a condition characterized by the buildup of fatty deposits and plaque in the arteries, which can lead to serious cardiovascular complications. The primary risk factors for atherosclerosis include lifestyle and health-related factors that contribute to the development of plaque.

Obesity plays a significant role in the development of atherosclerosis because it is often associated with increased levels of cholesterol, inflammation, and other metabolic disturbances that can damage the blood vessels. A high-fat diet, particularly one that is rich in saturated and trans fats, leads to elevated cholesterol levels, which are a direct contributor to plaque formation in the arteries. High blood pressure, or hypertension, causes stress on vascular walls, contributing to the injury of the endothelium (the inner lining of blood vessels), further promoting atherosclerosis.

On the other hand, anemia is a condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood, which does not contribute to the formation of atherosclerosis. While anemia poses its own health risks, such as decreased oxygen delivery to tissues, it is not a direct risk factor for developing the arterial plaque characteristic of atherosclerosis.