Risk Factors (1.18 & 1.7)

Question 1

Describe the role of antihypertensives in reducing the risk of CVD. Give 3 side effects

Answer 1

Antihypertensives are used to reduce a person’s blood pressure. This reduces CVD as it decreases likelihood of damage being done to endothelium and fatty deposits building leading to narrow vessels. However, sides effects include: erectile dysfunction, nausea & vomiting or diarrhea & constipation

Question 2

Describe the role of statins in reducing the risk of CVD. Give 3 side effects

Answer 2

Statins reduce the production on LDL (bad cholesterol). This will further decrease chance off build up of fatty deposit reducing CVD risk. Side effects may include: low blood platelet count, muscle pain or feeling physically tired.

Question 3

Describe the role of anticoagulants/platelet-inhibiting drugs in reducing the risk of CVD. Give 3 side effects

Answer 3

Reduce the likelihood of developing blood clots preventing the narrowing of arteries reducing CVD risk. Side effects include: prolonged nosebleeds, bleeding gums or passing blood in urine

Question 4

Explain how genetics can impact someone’s chances of developing CVD

Answer 4

Depending on family history certain genes can be passed down which may influence or increase the risk of developing CVD. For example, having a gene which leads weaker blood vessels making them more vulnerable to developing fatty build ups from damage.

Question 5

Explain how diet can impact someone’s chances of developing CVD

Answer 5

Having increase amounts of salt and fat in your diet can lead to the increase risk of developing CVD. For example, Salt causes kidneys to retain more water leading to a higher blood volume,due to water content, further leading to increased BP.

Question 6

Explain how age can impact someone’s chances of developing CVD

Answer 6

As you age your arteries will gradually stiffen and lose elasticity. This will impact chance of developing CVD as endothelium will become damaged due to blood pressure causing development of atherosclerosis - CVD

Question 7

Explain how high blood pressure can impact someone’s chances of developing CVD

Answer 7

Higher blood pressure increases chances of developing CVD as it can cause damage to endothelium leading to the development of an atheroma. This will restrict the vessel causing further damage or clots

Question 8

Explain how smoking can impact someone’s chances of developing CVD

Answer 8

Chemicals in smoke can cause damage to the endothelium, lead to the production of LDL and more all increasing the likelihood of developing CVD. So smoking will severely impact someone’s chances of getting CVD