What risk factor may increase cardiovascular disease risk in women?

A fasting glucose level of 125 mg/dL (6.9 mmol/L) indicates impaired fasting glucose, which is a condition associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes as well as cardiovascular diseases. In women, the presence of elevated glucose can be particularly concerning since it can exacerbate other cardiovascular risk factors, lead to changes in endothelial function, and promote insulin resistance. These factors collectively increase the risk for conditions such as coronary artery disease and stroke.

The other options present factors that do not indicate an elevated risk for cardiovascular disease in the same way. For example, a blood pressure of 125/80 mmHg is generally considered normal and does not indicate hypertension. HDL cholesterol levels of 42 mg/dL may reflect lower levels of protective cholesterol, but this alone is often not as significant a risk factor as impaired glucose levels. Similarly, a waist circumference of 82 cm may suggest an increased risk if it exceeds certain thresholds, but without additional context regarding the individual’s overall health and body composition, it is not classified as a direct risk factor as severe as fasting glucose levels indicating prediabetes or diabetes.