Which of the following is NOT listed as a risk factor for DVT?

• A. Factor V Leiden mutation
• B. Smoking
• C. Cancer
• D. Protein C deficiency

Answer: (B)

DVT risk hinges on factors that push the body toward clot formation, especially inherited thrombophilias and cancer. Factor V Leiden is a common inherited mutation that makes clots more likely by resisting activated protein C. Protein C deficiency removes an important anticoagulant check, increasing thrombin generation. Cancer creates a prothrombotic state through mechanisms like tumor-related coagulation activation and inflammation, plus often reduced mobility. Smoking, while it can raise the risk of venous thromboembolism in some contexts, isn’t typically listed as a standalone risk factor in many standard DVT risk-factor checklists. That’s why this option is identified as NOT listed in that specific context. Of course, smoking still contributes to overall cardiovascular risk and can compound other risk factors for clotting.