Which behavior is NOT influenced by stress in the context of cardiovascular disease (CVD)?

Physical exercise is a behavior that is typically not influenced negatively by stress, making it the correct answer. In fact, many individuals use physical exercise as a coping mechanism to manage stress. Exercise has positive effects on mental health, helping to reduce anxiety and improve overall mood. This physical activity counteracts some of the adverse effects of stress, such as increased blood pressure and elevated heart rate.

In contrast, smoking, hypertension, and cholesterol levels can all be significantly influenced by stress. Stress can lead to tobacco use, as some people may smoke to alleviate tension or anxiety. Additionally, stress can contribute to hypertension by causing the body's physiological responses to elevate blood pressure, which is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Stress can also negatively impact cholesterol levels, as high stress may lead to poor lifestyle choices, such as unhealthy eating patterns, which can increase cholesterol levels in the long run.