Which of the following is a risk factor for developing Peripheral Vascular Disease?

Diabetes is a significant risk factor for developing Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) due to its effect on blood vessels and circulation. High blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can lead to damage of the blood vessels over time, reducing blood flow and increasing the likelihood of vascular issues. Individuals with diabetes are also at greater risk for atherosclerosis, where arteries become narrowed and hardened, further contributing to the development of PVD.

In contrast, high cholesterol is also a risk factor for PVD, but the question specifically identifies diabetes as the correct answer, emphasizing its strong correlation to this condition. Regular exercise, on the other hand, is known to be protective and beneficial for vascular health, and low blood pressure generally does not contribute to the risk of PVD; in fact, maintaining lower blood pressure can be protective against vascular disease. Thus, diabetes stands out as a primary risk factor in the context of this question.