Certified in Public Health (CPH) Practice Exam

What is a significant risk associated with high blood pressure?

1. Heart attack

2. Stroke

3. Kidney failure

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a major risk factor for a variety of serious health conditions, including heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure. When blood pressure is consistently elevated, it places extra strain on the heart and arteries, which can lead to damage over time. This increases the likelihood of a heart attack, as the heart may struggle to receive enough oxygen-rich blood if the arteries become narrowed or blocked due to plaque build-up. Additionally, high blood pressure can cause blood vessels in the brain to rupture or become blocked, leading to a stroke. The impairment of blood flow can result in brain damage, which may cause long-term disability or death. Moreover, chronic high blood pressure can harm the kidneys, as they rely on healthy blood vessels to filter waste from the blood. Over time, hypertension can damage the kidney's delicate filtering system, potentially leading to kidney failure and the need for dialysis or transplant. Since all of these conditions are significant risks associated with high blood pressure, the most comprehensive answer encompasses all three possibilities. Thus, identifying "all of the above" as a response effectively recognizes the multifaceted dangers of hypertension.