Which of the following is a risk factor for Peripheral Vascular Disease?

• A. Exercise
• B. Diabetes
• C. Balanced diet
• D. Non-smoker

Answer: (B)

Peripheral Vascular Disease develops when arteries outside the heart and brain become narrowed or blocked, most often from atherosclerosis. Diabetes stands out as a major risk factor because chronic high blood glucose damages the lining of blood vessels, promotes chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, and accelerates the formation of plaque in arteries throughout the body. This combination leads to thicker, less compliant vessels and a higher likelihood of reduced blood flow to the limbs, causing symptoms like claudication.

In contrast, regular exercise helps improve blood flow and endothelial function; a balanced diet supports better glucose and lipid control; and not smoking removes a strong factor that directly injures vessels and accelerates plaque buildup. So diabetes best explains why Peripheral Vascular Disease develops among these options.