Which of the following is a non-modifiable risk factor for ischemic heart disease?

Ischemic heart disease is influenced by a variety of risk factors, which can be categorized as modifiable and non-modifiable. Non-modifiable risk factors are those that individuals cannot change in their lives.

Male sex is identified as a non-modifiable risk factor for ischemic heart disease. It reflects inherent biological differences in risk between genders. Men are generally at higher risk for developing ischemic heart disease earlier in life compared to women, due to factors including hormonal differences and possibly genetic predispositions.

In contrast, smoking, obesity, and hypertension are all modifiable risk factors. Individuals can change their smoking habits, engage in weight management to combat obesity, and manage hypertension through lifestyle changes and medication. These factors are critical in the prevention and management of ischemic heart disease, whereas male sex is a fixed characteristic that cannot be altered. Recognizing which risk factors are modifiable and non-modifiable is essential for effective patient education and preventive strategies in clinical practice.