Identifying which of the following during a cardiovascular assessment indicates increased risk for heart disease?

A family history of heart disease is a significant indicator of increased risk for heart disease as it points to genetic or hereditary predispositions that can affect an individual's cardiovascular health. Having close relatives with heart disease, especially at an early age, suggests that the individual may inherit risk factors such as high cholesterol, hypertension, or other metabolic syndromes that contribute to cardiovascular issues.

In contrast, stable weight and regular exercise are protective factors that generally reduce the risk of heart disease. High levels of HDL cholesterol are associated with a lower risk because HDL helps transport cholesterol away from the arteries. No previous history of cardiac issues generally indicates a lower risk profile. Therefore, while assessing cardiovascular risk, identifying a family history of heart disease is crucial, as it underscores the potential for inherited conditions that may impact heart health.