# Explain how obesity can increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

> Edexcel GCSE Biology (1BI0) — 5.3 Non-communicable diseases · Explain · 4 marks

> Obesity is a growing public health concern in the UK. A person is classified as obese when their body mass index (BMI) exceeds 30. Research shows that obese individuals have a significantly higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease compared to individuals with a normal BMI.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Obesity causes high blood pressure (hypertension)
2. High blood pressure causes damage to artery walls
3. Damaged artery walls lead to the build-up of atheromas (fatty deposits / plaques)
4. Atheromas restrict blood flow / increase risk of blockage, leading to heart attack or stroke

## Key terms

- [obesity](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/obesity)
- [cardiovascular disease](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/cardiovascular-disease)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Edexcel GCSE Biology (1BI0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-how-obesity-can-increase-the-b02f062f) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.