Which of the following is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease?

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease because it places excessive strain on the heart and blood vessels. Over time, this increased pressure can lead to damage, resulting in conditions such as heart attack, stroke, and heart failure. Hypertension is often referred to as a "silent killer" since it may not present symptoms until serious health problems arise. It is important to manage blood pressure through lifestyle modifications and medication when necessary to reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular complications.

Although obesity, smoking, and high cholesterol are also serious risk factors for cardiovascular disease, hypertension is particularly critical due to its pervasive, systemic effects on the cardiovascular system. Each of these factors can interact with one another and compound the risk; for example, obesity can lead to hypertension, and smoking can increase blood pressure as well. However, the specific role of hypertension in directly damaging the cardiovascular system makes it a major focus for intervention and prevention strategies.