Which of the following is listed as a risk factor for hypertension?

• A. Obesity
• B. Regular aerobic exercise
• C. Low sodium intake
• D. Adequate sleep

Answer: (A)

Obesity is a major risk factor for hypertension because excess body fat triggers several changes that push blood pressure upward. It increases blood volume and cardiac output, and promotes insulin resistance and sympathetic nervous system activation, which raise vascular tone. It also stimulates the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and causes endothelial dysfunction through inflammatory signals, all contributing to higher blood pressure. Obesity is also linked to sleep apnea, another contributor to hypertension, which compounds the risk.

Regular aerobic exercise, on the other hand, tends to lower blood pressure and improve vascular health. A low sodium intake generally helps reduce BP, and adequate sleep helps prevent BP elevation as well. These factors are protective rather than risk-enhancing, which is why obesity stands out as the risk factor in this context.