Final answer:
Among the options listed, anemia is not considered a major risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD). CAD is primarily caused by atherosclerosis and influenced by modifiable lifestyle risk factors and non-modifiable genetic factors, with age being the predominant risk factor.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question asks to identify which factor is not considered an important risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD). Important risk factors for CAD include hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, aging, and genetic factors, among others. Among the options provided, (a) anemia is not typically listed as a major risk factor for CAD. While anemia can affect cardiovascular health, it is not considered a direct risk factor in the same way as the other options listed.
It is crucial to understand that CAD is often caused by atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of plaques in the arteries, leading to narrowed arteries and reduced blood flow to the heart. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, a high-fat diet, and lack of exercise are controllable risk factors, and managing these can help prevent or slow the progression of CAD. Additionally, unmodifiable risk factors include age, gender, and family history, with age being the most significant. The disease often starts with fatty streaks in the vessels from a young age and progresses over the course of life.