Which of the following is NOT a risk factor for asthma exacerbations?

• A. Regular exercise without triggers
• B. Poor medication adherence
• C. URI illness
• D. Allergen exposure

Answer: (A)

Regular exercise without triggers is not a risk factor for asthma exacerbations. Inflammation and bronchial hyperresponsiveness flare up with triggers such as infections, poor adherence to controller medications, or exposure to allergens. When exercise does not provoke symptoms or trigger bronchoconstriction, it can be safely part of a healthy asthma management plan and may even improve overall control.

In contrast, a URI commonly increases airway inflammation and the likelihood of an exacerbation, poor medication adherence leads to inadequate control and higher risk of flare-ups, and allergen exposure can trigger allergic inflammation and worsen symptoms. So the statement about regular exercise without triggers stands out as not contributing to exacerbation risk, while the other factors do.