Which of the following is a risk factor for Ischemic CVA?

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a significant risk factor for ischemic cerebrovascular accidents (CVAs), which are commonly known as strokes. Through the process of atherosclerosis, high blood pressure contributes to the narrowing and hardening of blood vessels, leading to reduced blood flow to the brain. Over time, elevated blood pressure can damage the arteries, making them more susceptible to clot formation, which can occlude blood flow and lead to ischemia.

In the context of other options, frequent headaches, obesity, and chronic cough may be associated with various health conditions, but they do not directly correlate with the mechanism through which strokes occur. While obesity is also a risk factor for CVA, it is often linked through secondary causes such as hypertension and diabetes, making high blood pressure a more direct and immediate risk factor for ischemic strokes.