Which demographic is at a higher risk for developing cardiovascular disease?

Individuals with a family history of cardiovascular disease and older adults are indeed at a higher risk for developing cardiovascular disease. Family history is a significant risk factor because genetics can play a crucial role in one's predisposition to various cardiovascular conditions, such as hypertension, heart attack, and stroke. This hereditary influence can include inherited traits that affect cholesterol levels, heart health, and blood pressure regulation.

Additionally, older adults often experience physiological changes that increase their risk for cardiovascular issues. Aging is associated with factors such as decreased elasticity of blood vessels, accumulation of plaque in arteries, and the likelihood of comorbidities like diabetes and hypertension, which all contribute to a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

In contrast, the other demographics mentioned do not typically exhibit the same level of elevated risk. Teenagers with high activity levels and young adults who exercise regularly generally have healthier cardiovascular profiles due to their active lifestyles, which can help maintain good heart health. Children without health issues are also not in a high-risk category, as they typically have not yet developed conditions that predispose them to cardiovascular diseases. Thus, the combination of genetic predisposition and age makes individuals with a family history of cardiovascular disease and older adults the correct answer.