Which of the following is NOT a controllable risk factor for heart disease?

• A. Regular physical activity
• B. Weight
• C. Age
• D. Smoking

Answer: (C)

When evaluating heart disease risk, some factors can be changed through lifestyle or treatment, while others cannot. Age is a non-modifiable factor—you can’t alter how old you are. As people get older, the risk of heart disease tends to rise due to longer exposure to risk factors and natural changes in blood vessels and the heart.

The other items represent modifiable factors. Regular physical activity lowers risk by improving cardiovascular fitness, helping control blood pressure, cholesterol, and weight. Weight can be managed through diet and exercise. Smoking increases heart disease risk but stopping smoking or never starting reduces that risk.

So, the factor that isn’t controllable is age.