A nurse is reinforcing the education for a patient on the risks of coronary artery disease (CAD) the LPN knows that the following are modifiable risk factors: (Select all that apply.)

A. Family History and Genetics: Genetic predisposition and familial patterns of cardiovascular disease are fixed biological traits. These factors cannot be altered by lifestyle changes or medical interventions. While they inform risk assessment, they are classified as non-modifiable risk factors in clinical practice. B. Poorly Controlled Hypertension: High blood pressure is a modifiable risk factor that can be managed through diet, exercise, and pharmacological therapy. Reducing systemic vascular resistance decreases the mechanical stress on the coronary arterial walls. Effective control significantly lowers the long-term risk of plaque formation and myocardial infarction. C. Poorly Controlled Diabetes Mellitus: Chronic hyperglycemia leads to endothelial damage and accelerates the progression of coronary atherosclerosis. Through glycemic control, dietary modifications, and medication adherence, a patient can mitigate the metabolic impact on their vasculature. It is a key target for secondary prevention of coronary artery disease. D. Poorly Controlled Hyperlipidemia: Elevated levels of low-density lipoproteins contribute directly to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques in the coronary arteries. Lipid levels are modifiable through statin therapy and a low-fat, high-fiber diet. Managing cholesterol is essential for reducing the risk of acute coronary syndromes. E. Morbid obesity: Excessive adipose tissue is associated with chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, and increased cardiac workload. Weight reduction through caloric restriction and increased physical activity is a direct way to modify this risk factor. It improves the overall metabolic profile and reduces strain on the cardiovascular system. F. Smoking and Use of Tobacco Products: Tobacco use causes immediate vasoconstriction and long-term damage to the vascular endothelium. Smoking cessation is one of the most impactful modifiable changes a patient can make to prevent coronary artery disease. It results in a rapid decrease in cardiovascular risk after the habit is discontinued. G. Age: The natural aging process involves the progressive stiffening of arteries and cumulative exposure to various stressors. Age is a non-modifiable risk factor that cannot be influenced by nursing interventions or patient behavior. Risk assessments use age to stratify patients but focus on other variables for active management.