Which of the following is not a modifiable risk factor for Hypertension?

Appeared in: MP CHO -2021 (Shift 1st)

Explanation

Genetic factors are inherited traits that predispose an individual to developing hypertension.
Unlike lifestyle choices, a person's genetic makeup cannot be changed, making it a non-modifiable risk factor.
Family studies show a significantly higher probability of developing hypertension if parents are hypertensive, confirming a strong genetic link.

Option A: High salt intake is a well-established modifiable risk factor. It can be controlled through dietary changes.
Option B: Obesity is a significant modifiable risk factor. Weight can be managed through diet and exercise.
Option C: Excessive alcohol consumption is a modifiable risk factor. Intake can be reduced or eliminated.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Classification of risk factors for hypertension (modifiable vs. non-modifiable) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses play a crucial role in patient education, focusing on lifestyle changes to manage modifiable risk factors like diet, weight, and alcohol intake.
Assessing for non-modifiable risk factors, such as family history, helps identify high-risk individuals who require more vigilant screening and earlier intervention.
What if? If a patient has a strong family history of hypertension (a non-modifiable risk factor), the nurse's priority shifts to aggressive management of all modifiable risk factors to mitigate the overall risk.

How to Approach the Question

First, carefully read the question and identify the negative keyword 'not'. This means you are looking for the option that does not fit the category 'modifiable risk factor'.
Define 'modifiable risk factor': a factor that can be changed or controlled by an individual's actions or lifestyle.
Evaluate each option against this definition.
Salt Intake: Can be changed (modifiable).
Obesity: Can be changed through diet/exercise (modifiable).
Alcohol: Consumption can be changed (modifiable).

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Classification of risk factors for hypertension (modifiable vs. non-modifiable).
Stem keywords: Hypertension, risk factor
Lead-in keywords: not, modifiable
Negative lead-in flag: The question asks to identify the factor that is NOT modifiable, which requires careful reading to spot the negative framing.

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E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 1 — Subpart C (pp 404-604 of 604) p. 42-44

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 1 p. 97-99

Practise the full MP CHO -2021 (Shift 1st)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.