Final answer:
High cholesterol levels, particularly due to genetic conditions like familial hypercholesterolemia, are genetic variations that increase the risk for cardiovascular disease.
Step-by-step explanation:
In addressing the question of which genetic variation increases a person's risk for cardiovascular disease, we find that high cholesterol levels are a relevant aspect due to genetic factors like familial hypercholesterolemia (FH). FH is an inherited condition that can lead to elevated cholesterol levels, substantially raising the risk for heart disease. While factors such as obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes are significant risk factors, they are not purely genetic variations. Instead, they are conditions that can be influenced by both genetic predispositions and environmental factors such as diet, physical activity, and lifestyle choices. Genetics play an important role in cardiovascular health, especially when considering family history and specific inheritable conditions.