Final answer:
Cancer is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, with environmental factors like lifestyle choices, exposure to certain pathogens, and nonpathogenic factors like radon and UV radiation being major contributors. A family history of cancer can indicate an increased genetic risk. However, many cancer cases are preventable through healthy living.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cancer is influenced by a mix of genetic and environmental factors. While a small percentage of cancers can be attributed mostly to genetic inheritance, such as those involving BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, the majority are related to environmental risk factors. These include lifestyle choices like smoking, poor diet, and physical inactivity, which contribute significantly to cancer incidence and mortality. Notable environmental risk factors also encompass pathogens like hepatitis viruses, which can increase the risk of liver cancer, and nonpathogenic factors like radon gas and UV radiation, leading respectively to higher risks of lung and skin cancers. Additionally, a patient's family history can be indicative of hereditary cancer risk, especially if multiple close relatives have had the same cancer, or if cancers have occurred in paired organs. Conversely, certain behaviors and exposures are modifiable, suggesting that a substantial number of cancer cases and deaths could be prevented by adopting healthier lifestyles.