other risk factors for CVD- lqc 11

Question 1

Explain what is meant by a multifactorial disease

Answer 1

Many factors are involved in the development of a disease/condition. One or more genes may also be involved.

Question 2

genetic predisposition risk factor for CVD

Answer 2

Some genes increase the risk of CHD. E.g. mutations in the apolipoprotein gene cluster and the LDLR gene

Question 3

high salt intake risk factor for CVD

Answer 3

Causes the kidneys to retain water. Higher blood fluid levels increases blood pressure, which can then damage the endothelium of artery walls, increasing the risk of atherosclerosis

Question 4

excessive alcohol consumption risk factor for CVD

Answer 4

Increase blood pressure. Can contribute to obesity. Can damage the brain, heart and liver. Damage to the liver impairs the ability to remove glucose and lipids from the blood. Converted to ethanal which can be incorporated into very low density lipoproteins which increase the risk of plaque formation

Question 5

high saturated fat intake risk factor for CVD

Answer 5

Leads to high blood LDL cholesterol levels which increases the risk of cholesterol being deposited in artery walls, increasing risk of atherosclerosis

Question 6

age risk factor for CVD

Answer 6

With age, there is some loss of elasticity in arteries and may be more easily damaged. Blood pressure may also increase, increasing risk of atherosclerosis

Question 7

gender risk factor for CVD

Answer 7

Lower risk in females before the menopause due to some protective mechanism caused by a women’s reproductive hormones (specifically oestrogen)

Question 8

high blood pressure risk factor for CVD

Answer 8

Increases risk of damage to endothelium of the artery wall which increases risk of atherosclerosis

Question 9

smoking risk factor for CVD

Answer 9

Nicotine stimulates production of adrenaline which causes an increase in heart rate & vasoconstriction. Both raise blood pressure which could lead to damage to the artery endothelium, therefore increased risk of atherosclerosis.
Other chemicals can increase damage to artery endothelium
Carbon monoxide is carried instead therefore lower oxygen supply to cells therefore leads to an increase in heart rate

Question 10

inactivity risk factor for CVD

Answer 10

Lack of exercise may lead to energy imbalance, causing weight gain and obesity which can lead to high blood pressure. This increases the risk of atherosclerosis.

Question 11

obesity risk factor for CVD

Answer 11

Increases blood pressure which increases risk of damage to endothelium of artery wall. Increases blood cholesterol levels which can contribute to formation of atheromas. Increases risk of developing type II diabetes