A person with which of the following characteristics is at an increased risk for heart disease?

• A. Low blood pressure
• B. Regular physical activity
• C. High levels of LDL cholesterol
• D. High levels of HDL cholesterol

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of cholesterol in heart disease: Cholesterol is a lipid molecule that circulates in the blood. It is carried by lipoproteins, primarily LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and HDL (high-density lipoprotein). LDL is often referred to as 'bad cholesterol' because high levels can lead to plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease. HDL is known as 'good cholesterol' because it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream.
2. Identify the risk factors for heart disease: High levels of LDL cholesterol are a significant risk factor for heart disease because they contribute to the formation of plaques in the arteries, leading to atherosclerosis. On the other hand, high levels of HDL cholesterol are generally protective against heart disease.
3. Evaluate the options provided: Low blood pressure and regular physical activity are generally associated with a lower risk of heart disease. High levels of LDL cholesterol increase the risk, while high levels of HDL cholesterol decrease the risk.
4. Focus on the correct answer: Based on the information above, the characteristic that increases the risk for heart disease is high levels of LDL cholesterol.
5. Summarize the reasoning: High levels of LDL cholesterol contribute to plaque buildup in arteries, which can lead to heart disease. Therefore, individuals with elevated LDL cholesterol are at an increased risk for heart disease compared to those with low blood pressure, regular physical activity, or high levels of HDL cholesterol.