John, a 55-year-old executive in Alberta, applies for a new life insurance policy. During the paramedical exam, his blood pressure is recorded as 145/95, and he discloses he occasionally smokes cigars. He claims he has not smoked cigarettes in 10 years. How will the insurer likely classify him?

Question: John, a 55-year-old executive in Alberta, applies for a new life insurance policy. During the paramedical exam, his blood pressure is recorded as 145/95, and he discloses he occasionally smokes cigars. He claims he has not smoked cigarettes in 10 years. How will the insurer likely classify him?

Answer options:

• Preferred Non-Smoker, due to his executive status and infrequent cigar use.
• Standard Non-Smoker, as occasional cigar use is often disregarded for life insurance. ✅ Standard Smoker, given his current blood pressure and stated occasional cigar smoking.
• Substandard Smoker, due to high blood pressure combined with any form of nicotine use.

Correct answer: Standard Smoker, given his current blood pressure and stated occasional cigar smoking.

Explanation: Most insurers classify any nicotine use within a certain period (e.g., 12 months) as 'smoker,' regardless of frequency or type (cigarettes, cigars, vaping). His blood pressure reading also falls outside typical 'preferred' rates, making 'Standard Smoker' the most probable classification. Underwriting guidelines define smoker status based on nicotine use.