Which individual is most likely to develop hypertension?

The individual most likely to develop hypertension is the obese 40-year-old smoker. Several risk factors contribute significantly to the development of high blood pressure, and this individual exhibits multiple key ones.

Obesity is a well-established risk factor for hypertension. Excess body weight often leads to increased blood volume and higher cardiac output, which, over time, can elevate blood pressure. Additionally, smoking is another critical risk factor; it damages the blood vessels, making them less elastic, which can further exacerbate hypertension. The combination of these factors in this individual creates a heightened risk profile for developing high blood pressure.

In contrast, the underweight 12-year-old is unlikely to develop hypertension due to their lack of excessive weight and relatively lower blood pressure typically associated with youth. The 30-year-old distance runner is generally in good physical health, maintaining a lower likelihood of hypertension due to regular exercise, which is beneficial for cardiovascular health. The 45-year-old woman on a low carbohydrate diet may face different health challenges but is not immediately associated with the significant risks that lead to hypertension like obesity and smoking do.