Final answer:
A carcinogen is any agent capable of causing cancer by inducing DNA mutations, which may be chemical, radiological, or biological. Some common carcinogens include tobacco smoke, UV radiation, and certain viruses. Cancer development, influenced by both environmental exposure and genetics, involves mutations in genes controlling the cell cycle.
Step-by-step explanation:
Any factor that causes the formation of cancer is a carcinogen. A carcinogen is an agent with the potential to cause cancer, which is characterized by uncontrolled cell growth. The primary mechanism through which carcinogens contribute to cancer development is by causing mutations in the DNA, particularly the genes that regulate the cell cycle. When these genes are damaged, cell division can spiral out of control, resulting in a mass of abnormal cells known as a tumor.
There are many different types of carcinogens, including certain chemicals, radiations, and viruses. For instance, tobacco smoke contains carcinogenic substances that can lead to lung cancer, while exposure to UV radiation from the sun can lead to skin cancer. Even certain inherited genetic mutations can predispose individuals to cancer, making cancer a complex disease with multiple risk factors.
Environmental risk factors such as radiation, chemicals, and certain lifestyles, along with inherited genetic predispositions, all play roles in the complex process of cancer genesis, known as carcinogenesis. It is essential to note that not all individuals exposed to carcinogens will develop cancer, as genetic factors and overall health also influence cancer risk.