Which of the following is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease?

Gender is considered a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease due to the physiological differences that exist between males and females. For instance, men generally have a higher risk of developing heart disease at a younger age compared to women. This difference is partly attributed to hormonal factors, particularly estrogen, which offers protective benefits against heart disease in premenopausal women. As women age and go through menopause, their risk begins to increase, potentially reaching levels comparable to men.

In contrast, physical activity, dietary fiber, and caloric restriction are factors that can positively influence cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of heart disease, rather than serving as risk factors. Regular physical activity is known to improve heart health, as it helps to maintain a healthy weight, reduces blood pressure, and improves cholesterol levels. Dietary fiber is essential for heart health as it helps lower cholesterol and supports good digestive health. Caloric restriction, when done properly, can also contribute to weight management and improve various health markers.

Understanding the impact of gender as a risk factor helps highlight how biological and lifestyle differences affect cardiovascular health, illustrating the importance of tailored prevention and treatment strategies.