Which of the following is a primary risk factor for coronary heart disease?

• A. Regular Exercise
• B. Smoking
• C. Adequate Sleep
• D. Balanced Diet

Answer: (B)

Understanding how lifestyle choices affect heart health is the key idea here. Smoking is the strongest factor among those listed because it directly harms the arteries and promotes plaque buildup by increasing heart rate and blood pressure, raising LDL and lowering HDL, causing inflammation, and making blood more prone to clotting. These effects accelerate atherosclerosis and heighten the risk of a heart attack. While regular exercise, adequate sleep, and a balanced diet support heart health and reduce risk, they act as protective factors rather than primary risks in this context.