Which of the following is a recognized risk factor for pulmonary embolism?

• A. Obesity
• B. Regular exercise
• C. Adequate hydration
• D. Young age

Answer: (A)

Recognizing factors that raise the likelihood of clot formation in the veins helps explain pulmonary embolism risk. Obesity contributes to venous stasis, increased abdominal pressure, and a proinflammatory, procoagulant state, all of which make deep vein thrombosis more likely. If a DVT forms, it can dislodge and travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism.

Regular exercise improves venous return, reducing stasis and the chance of clot formation. Adequate hydration helps keep blood flow and viscosity in a normal range, which can also lower risk. Younger age is generally associated with a lower baseline risk compared to older adults. Because of these patterns, obesity is a recognized risk factor for pulmonary embolism.