Final answer:
Common risk factors for cancer include genetic mutations, lifestyle behaviors such as smoking and poor diet, and environmental exposures to carcinogens like radon, UV light, and air pollution. While some risks like genetic factors are less prevalent, behavioral and environmental factors contribute to most cancers.
Step-by-step explanation:
Common risk factors for cancer include a range of genetic, behavioral, biological, and environmental factors. Genetic factors involve inherited mutations, such as BRCA genes that significantly increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Behavioral and lifestyle factors, such as smoking tobacco, an unhealthy diet, and lack of exercise, play a critical role in the development of cancer. Excess body weight due to poor diet and inactivity also contributes to high cancer mortality. Environmental factors encompass a broad category, including exposure to carcinogens such as radon gas, air pollution, and ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun, which are known to increase the risk of cancers like lung and skin cancer. It is important to note that travel is generally not considered a direct risk factor for cancer.
Often, the interaction between genetic predispositions and environmental exposures leads to DNA damage, which can eventually cause cancer. While inherited risk factors account for a smaller percentage of cancers, both the environment and lifestyle choices contribute to the majority of cancer cases and deaths. Cultural practices and regional lifestyles, which influence behaviors like smoking and exercising, can also affect cancer rates.