In the Interheart study, which factor is NOT associated with increased AMI risk?

In the context of the Interheart study, which identifies various risk factors associated with the occurrence of acute myocardial infarction (AMI), aerobic exercise is recognized as a protective factor rather than one that increases AMI risk. Regular aerobic exercise has been shown to improve cardiovascular health by enhancing the body's ability to utilize oxygen, improving lipid profiles, and assisting in weight management, all of which are beneficial for heart health.

Contrastingly, the other factors—smoking, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension—are well-established contributors to the heightened risk of AMI. Smoking leads to vascular damage and decreased oxygen supply, diabetes can cause arterial damage and complications that increase the likelihood of heart disease, and hypertension places increased strain on the heart and blood vessels. A lifestyle characterized by regular aerobic exercise is associated with reduced cardiovascular events, highlighting its role as a protective factor against AMI.