Regarding factors associated with peptic ulcer disease, which of the following is NOT considered to be a risk factor for ulceration?

a. Being of female sex affords a certain amount of resistance to the development of duodenal ulceration and this is markedly seen during pregnancy. Steroid use has been shown to predispose to the formation of ulcers by mechanisms that involve both a disturbance in acid regulation and secretion and interference with the normal protective mucosal layer of the stomach. Cushing’s ulcer is the eponymous name given to the development of acute peptic ulceration secondary to head injury, major surgery or acutely stressful conditions, and a strong association between ulcer formation and severe burns has also been described (Curling’s ulcer). These findings form the basis for the routine use of proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole as part of the gastrointestinal prophylaxis of the critical care bundle in situations of acute stress.