Final answer:
An example of a modifiable risk factor for cancer identified by the American Cancer Society is weight. While there are non-modifiable factors like genetics and family history, modifiable factors such as weight, diet, and physical activity can be changed to lower the risk of cancer.
Step-by-step explanation:
An example of a modifiable risk factor identified by the American Cancer Society is weight. Modifiable risk factors are aspects of a person's lifestyle or environment that they can change to reduce their risk of developing cancer. These include but are not limited to obesity, diet, and level of physical activity.
For instance, a diet high in meat, a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, and high blood pressure are all modifiable risk factors for cancer. A healthy diet, physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight can significantly decrease the risk of developing many types of cancer.
In contrast, non-modifiable risk factors such as age, genetics, family history, and ethnic background cannot be changed. These are inherent to the individual and can predispose them to an increased risk of cancer. For example, mutations in genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 significantly heighten the risk for breast and ovarian cancer but are non-modifiable as they are inherited.
Environmental risk factors such as exposure to radon, air pollution, and UV light are also significant in increasing cancer risk, but many of these can be mitigated with proper precautions.