Which of the following is a way that stress can affect the circulatory system?

• A. By preventing the development of diabetes
• B. By improving immune system function
• C. By increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes
• D. By reducing blood pressure to below normal levels

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the circulatory system and its primary functions, which include transporting blood, oxygen, and nutrients throughout the body.
2. Step 2: Recognize that stress triggers the body's 'fight or flight' response, releasing hormones like adrenaline and cortisol that affect heart rate and blood pressure.
3. Step 3: Analyze how chronic stress can lead to increased blood pressure and heart rate, which puts extra strain on the heart and blood vessels.
4. Step 4: Connect this increased strain to a higher risk of cardiovascular problems such as heart attacks and strokes, as the blood vessels can become damaged or narrowed over time.
5. Step 5: Eliminate incorrect options by noting that stress does not prevent diabetes, improve immune function, or reduce blood pressure below normal levels; instead, it generally has negative effects on the circulatory system.