Which of the following is an uncontrollable risk factor due to congenital or developmental factors?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Hyperlipidemia
• C. Tobacco use
• D. Congenital

Answer: (D)

Non-modifiable risk factors are those you can’t change with lifestyle or treatment; congenital or developmental factors fall into this group. The option that fits is congenital, because it refers to conditions present from birth due to genetics or development and cannot be altered after formation. In contrast, hypertension and hyperlipidemia are typically addressed and reduced with medical management and lifestyle changes, making them modifiable risk factors. Tobacco use is also highly modifiable, since stopping smoking lowers risk substantially. In practice, recognizing a congenital risk helps set baseline assessment, while controlling modifiable risks remains essential to reduce overall vascular risk.