Edexcel A Level (IAL) Biology -1.12 Risk Factors of CVD- Study Notes- New Syllabus

Factors Increasing Risk of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD)

🌱 Introduction

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) refers to disorders of the heart and blood vessels such as coronary heart disease, stroke, and atherosclerosis.
Several lifestyle and biological factors can increase a person’s risk. These are often interconnected, meaning one factor can worsen another.

1. Genetics (Inherited Risk)

• Some people inherit genes that make them more prone to high blood pressure or high blood cholesterol.
• Example: Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) → causes high LDL (“bad cholesterol”) levels.
• These genetic traits can increase plaque buildup even with a healthy lifestyle.

2. Diet

• High in saturated fats or trans fats → raises LDL cholesterol → more atherosclerosis.
• Low-fiber diets → reduce cholesterol removal.
• High salt intake → increases blood pressure (retains water).
• High sugar diets → increase obesity & type 2 diabetes risk.

Trick: “FSSS” → Fats, Salt, Sugar, Shortage (of fiber)

3. Age

• Risk increases with age as arteries lose elasticity.
• Plaques have more time to form.
• Middle-aged & older adults face higher CVD risk.

4. Gender

• Men are more prone to CVD earlier in life.
• Oestrogen in women (pre-menopause) raises HDL → protective effect.
• After menopause, women’s risk rises to match men’s.

5. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

• Damages endothelium (inner artery lining).
• Triggers inflammation → plaque formation (atherosclerosis).
• Makes heart work harder → can cause heart failure or stroke.

Mnemonic: “BP = Broken Pipes” – high pressure damages vessel walls.

6. Smoking

• Nicotine → raises heart rate & constricts vessels → ↑ BP.
• Carbon monoxide → reduces oxygen transport by haemoglobin.
• Chemicals damage endothelium → start atherosclerosis.
• Reduces HDL (“good cholesterol”) levels.

7. Physical Inactivity

• Leads to obesity, poor circulation, weaker heart muscles.
• Regular exercise → raises HDL, lowers BP & resting HR, improves vessel elasticity.

📊 Summary Table

⚡ Quick Recap 
High BP and smoking → most vessel-damaging factors.
Genes & age → uncontrollable risks.
Diet & activity → controllable lifestyle risks.
Regular exercise + balanced diet → strongest CVD prevention combo.