Which factor is likely to increase an individual's health insurance premium?

An individual's health insurance premium is influenced significantly by health risks associated with existing medical conditions. When underwriting health insurance, insurers assess the likelihood of claims based on an applicant's health profile. Those with pre-existing medical conditions present a higher risk for insurance companies, as they are more likely to seek medical care and incur higher costs. Consequently, this elevated risk leads to increased premiums to accommodate potential future healthcare expenses.

In contrast, younger individuals and those with healthy lifestyles generally have lower insurance premiums due to the reduced likelihood of submitting claims and the perceived lower risk of future health issues. Additionally, a stable occupation does not directly impact health risks and, therefore, does not play a significant role in determining premiums in the same way existing medical conditions do.