DOT Certification Practice Exam

Which factor is most closely related to gender risk in CHD?

1. Postmenopausal status

2. Exercise frequency

3. Cholesterol levels

4. Smoking history

The correct answer is: Postmenopausal status

Postmenopausal status is most closely related to gender risk in coronary heart disease (CHD) primarily due to the hormonal changes that occur in women during and after menopause. Estrogen plays a protective role against heart disease, and its levels significantly decrease after menopause. This reduction in estrogen is associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, including CHD. While factors such as exercise frequency, cholesterol levels, and smoking history are important risk factors for heart disease, they do not specifically relate to the gender differences that prominently shift with menopausal status. Exercise frequency can affect overall cardiovascular health, cholesterol levels are significant in assessing heart disease risk, and smoking history is a critical risk factor for both men and women. However, the unique aspect of postmenopausal status directly ties to the biological and physiological shifts that are specific to women and significantly increase their vulnerability to heart disease after menopause.