Final answer:
Damage to DNA can occur through various means, resulting in mutations. Mutations in repair genes can lead to serious consequences like cancer.
Step-by-step explanation:
Damage to DNA can occur through various means, including exposure to environmental factors such as UV light or chemicals, as well as errors during DNA replication. These damages can result in mutations, which are permanent changes in the DNA sequence. Mutations in repair genes can lead to serious consequences like cancer.