Which of the following is a major risk factor for the development of preeclampsia?

Chronic hypertension is a significant risk factor for the development of preeclampsia. Women who have high blood pressure before pregnancy or develop hypertension early in their pregnancy are at increased risk. This is due to the pre-existing vascular changes and endothelial dysfunction associated with chronic hypertension, which can exacerbate the complications linked to preeclampsia.

Cigarette smoking is also considered a risk factor, though it has a more complex relationship with preeclampsia. While smoking is generally harmful and is associated with various negative pregnancy outcomes, some studies suggest it may be linked to a lower risk of preeclampsia. Thus, it does not emerge as a definitive major risk factor in all contexts.

The association between Caucasian race and preeclampsia is less direct compared to other factors. While demographic factors, including race, can influence the incidence and severity of hypertension and preeclampsia, Caucasian race alone does not substantially increase the risk compared to other factors like chronic hypertension.

Thus, the emphasis on chronic hypertension highlights its critical role in the pathophysiology of preeclampsia, making it a major risk factor. The other factors mentioned contribute to the risk landscape but do not surpass the impact of chronic