ACE Health Coach Certification Practice Test

Which of the following individuals is considered at low risk for atherosclerotic disease according to the ACSM risk stratification?

1. male - age 42; father died at 50 of myocardial infarction; quit smoking 9 months ago

2. female - age 56; BMI = 32; nonsmoker

3. male - age 47; BMI = 28; serum cholesterol = 212 mg/dL

4. female - age 60; fasting blood glucose = 114 mg/dL; HDL cholesterol = 32

The correct answer is: male - age 42; father died at 50 of myocardial infarction; quit smoking 9 months ago

The individual described in the first choice, a 42-year-old male, can be considered at low risk for atherosclerotic disease based on the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) risk stratification criteria. Although he has a significant family history of myocardial infarction, he has taken a positive step by quitting smoking nine months ago, which significantly lowers his cardiovascular risk. In risk stratification, factors such as age, family history of cardiovascular disease, smoking status, and other health metrics (like cholesterol and glucose levels) are considered. Although the age and family history raise concerns, the fact that he has quit smoking is a significant mitigating factor, as smoking is one of the major risk factors for heart disease. In contrast, the other individuals listed have additional risk factors that elevate their risk assessment. The female aged 56 has obesity (BMI of 32), which is associated with higher cardiovascular risk. The 47-year-old male has an elevated serum cholesterol level (212 mg/dL), which is another risk factor. The 60-year-old female has a fasting blood glucose level indicating pre-diabetes and low HDL cholesterol, both of which increase the risk for cardiovascular disease. Therefore, considering the overall assessment, the male at