Final answer:
High rates of cancer in children are partially explained by genetic predispositions and environmental factors like UV radiation and exposure to carcinogens, along with lifestyle behaviors such as poor diet and inactivity associated with obesity.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the information provided, high rates of cancer in children today can be explained by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Environmental influences, like exposure to carcinogens such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, result in DNA damage that can lead to cancer. Lifestyle factors contributing to high rates of obesity, such as poor diet and physical inactivity, are also known to be responsible for at least a third of cancer deaths. Additionally, certain inherited genetic mutations, like those in BRCA1 and BRCA2, significantly increase the risk of developing some types of cancer.
- Environment-related contributors such as radon and UV radiation from the sun can increase the risk of particular cancers.
- Lifestyle behaviors, including poor diet and lack of exercise, play a role in obesity rates, which is a known risk factor for cancer.
- Genetic predispositions, where inherited genes can elevate cancer risks substantially.