7.5 Risk Factors and Prevention

Notes

A risk factor is something that increases the chance of getting a disease.

• Uncontrollable: age, family history (heredity), sex, and some genes.
• Controllable: tobacco use, physical inactivity, unhealthy eating patterns, too much sun exposure, and untreated high blood pressure.
• Having a risk factor does not mean you will get the disease, and having none does not guarantee you won't.
• Prevention includes: staying active, eating a balanced diet, not smoking or vaping, wearing sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and protective clothing, getting enough sleep, managing stress and getting vaccines.
• Knowing your family health history helps your doctor spot risks early.
• Example: Someone whose father has heart disease can lower their own risk with exercise, balanced eating and avoiding tobacco.