Which patient is at the highest risk for developing primary hypertension?

The patient who is 65 years old and identifies as African American with a BMI of 35 is at the highest risk for developing primary hypertension. Several factors contribute to this conclusion.

Age is a significant risk factor; as individuals get older, they are more likely to develop hypertension due to changes in blood vessels and overall cardiovascular health. The increased age increases vascular stiffness and decreases the elasticity of blood vessels, leading to higher blood pressure.

Additionally, ethnicity plays a crucial role in hypertension risk. African Americans have a higher prevalence of hypertension compared to other racial and ethnic groups. This heightened risk is influenced by genetic factors, lifestyle, and socio-economic conditions, which can all contribute to the development of hypertension.

The BMI of 35 indicates obesity, which is another major risk factor for hypertension. Excess body weight puts additional strain on the heart and blood vessels, leading to higher blood pressure. Obesity is strongly linked to metabolic changes that can elevate blood pressure levels.

Combining these factors—age, ethnicity, and obesity—positions this patient at a significantly higher risk for developing primary hypertension compared to the other scenarios presented.