Which of the following is a modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease? (diabetes example)

• A. Age
• B. Family history
• C. Male gender
• D. Diabetes

Answer: (D)

Understanding modifiable versus non-modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease helps you see what you can influence. Diabetes is the modifiable factor here because its impact on cardiovascular risk can be reduced through active management. By improving glycemic control, adopting healthy eating and weight management, increasing physical activity, and using medications that improve blood sugar, blood pressure, and lipid levels, you can lower the overall cardiovascular risk associated with diabetes.

The other factors—age, family history, and male gender—are determined by biology and genetics and cannot be changed. So diabetes is the factor you can modify to reduce cardiovascular risk.