A factor or agent which increases the risk of cancer is known as a?

A factor or agent that increases the risk of cancer is classified as a carcinogen. Carcinogens can be chemical substances, physical agents, or biological organisms that cause or promote the formation of cancer by altering cellular metabolism or damaging DNA in cells. The relationship between carcinogens and cancer is well established through scientific research and epidemiological studies, which have identified various agents, including certain chemicals (like benzene), radiation (such as UV light), and some viruses (like human papillomavirus), that can lead to the development of cancer.

In contrast, teratogens are substances that can cause birth defects in a developing fetus, affecting physical or functional development rather than directly increasing cancer risk. Mutagens are agents that cause mutations in DNA, which can potentially lead to cancer, but they are not synonymous with carcinogens, as not all mutagens are able to cause cancer. Fomites refer to inanimate objects or surfaces that can carry infectious agents, which is primarily related to the transmission of diseases rather than cancer risk. Understanding these distinctions is essential for recognizing the complex factors that contribute to cancer risk in environmental health contexts.