In the Framingham risk assessment criteria, which of the following factors is NOT typically included?

The Framingham risk assessment is primarily designed to estimate an individual's risk of developing cardiovascular disease based on several key factors. Among these factors are HDL levels, smoking status, and blood pressure. These elements have strong correlations with cardiovascular events and are essential for risk stratification.

HDL levels, for instance, represent the concentration of high-density lipoprotein, which plays a protective role against heart disease. Smoking status is critical as tobacco use significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular problems. Blood pressure is another vital determinant; both systolic and diastolic readings contribute to the overall assessment of cardiovascular risk.

In contrast, body mass index (BMI), while a useful measure of overall health and weight status, is not a specific component in the original Framingham risk equations. The emphasis in the Framingham criteria is more closely aligned with metabolic and lifestyle factors directly tied to cardiovascular events rather than general obesity metrics. Thus, body mass index is not included as a standard criterion in the Framingham risk assessment.