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The claim that 17.4% of the US population has Italian heritage is supported by data from the U.S. Census Bureau and other demographic studies indicating that Italian Americans represent a significant ethnic group in the United States. This percentage reflects a rich history of immigration and cultural integration, particularly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries when many Italians migrated to the US.

Understanding that 17.4% is a cumulative figure derived from various data points, including self-reported ancestry and familial ties to Italian immigrants, helps contextualize this answer. This broader perspective acknowledges not only the population's size but also the lasting cultural influence of Italian Americans on American society, encompassing contributions to food, music, art, and family traditions.

The other percentages, while indicative of various backgrounds in the population, do not align with established demographic studies on the specific Italian heritage claim, making 17.4% the most accurate choice in this context.