ACE Personal Trainer Practice Exam

What constitutes a positive risk factor for family history in ACSM risk stratification?

1. Heart disease before age 50 in any relative

2. Myocardial infarction before 45 in a male relative

3. Sudden death before 55 in a father

4. Coronary revascularization before 65 in a mother

The correct answer is: Myocardial infarction before 45 in a male relative

A positive risk factor for family history in ACSM risk stratification is defined by specific age-related criteria for conditions associated with cardiovascular disease in relatives. The correct choice highlights the critical age of 45 years for male relatives who have experienced a myocardial infarction, which is a significant indicator of increased risk for cardiovascular issues. This choice emphasizes that early occurrences of heart problems in male family members can be an essential consideration for assessing an individual's risk level. Family history plays a vital role in understanding one's risk profile for heart disease, as genetics and shared environmental factors can contribute to the likelihood of developing cardiovascular conditions. In this context, the other choices, while they do reflect incidents of cardiovascular disease, do not adhere to the specific age criteria set forth by the ACSM. For example, heart disease before age 50 in any relative does not clarify the condition type or provide a specific age threshold for each gender. Sudden death before 55 in a father and coronary revascularization before 65 in a mother also provide indicators of family history but are not aligned with the strict criteria outlined for stratifying risks according to the ACSM guidelines.