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Multiple Choice

Which of the following is NOT a risk factor for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA)?

Regular exercise is not a risk factor for an abdominal aortic aneurysm; it tends to be protective. AAA risk rises with factors that promote weakening and stress on the aortic wall. Smoking drives chronic inflammation, elastin and matrix degradation, and accelerated atherosclerosis, all of which weaken the wall and promote dilation. A family history suggests genetic or familial predisposition to vessel-wall weakness or shared risk factors. High blood pressure increases the hemodynamic stress on the aorta, making dilation more likely over time. By contrast, regular physical activity helps lower blood pressure, improve endothelial function, and reduce inflammation, lowering overall risk for AAA development and progression.

Regular exercise is not a risk factor for an abdominal aortic aneurysm; it tends to be protective. AAA risk rises with factors that promote weakening and stress on the aortic wall. Smoking drives chronic inflammation, elastin and matrix degradation, and accelerated atherosclerosis, all of which weaken the wall and promote dilation. A family history suggests genetic or familial predisposition to vessel-wall weakness or shared risk factors. High blood pressure increases the hemodynamic stress on the aorta, making dilation more likely over time. By contrast, regular physical activity helps lower blood pressure, improve endothelial function, and reduce inflammation, lowering overall risk for AAA development and progression.