Risk factors include genetic and physiological factors, age, physical environment, and lifestyle. The presence of any risk factor means that which statement is true?

• A. A person with the risk factor will get the disease
• B. The chances of getting the disease are increased
• C. The disease is guaranteed not to develop if the risk factor is controlled
• D. Risk modification will have no effect on disease prevention

Answer: (B)

Risk factors are elements that increase the likelihood of developing a disease, but they do not determine the outcome. If a risk factor is present, the chances of getting the disease are higher than if that factor were absent, yet this does not mean the disease will definitely occur. Controlling or modifying a risk factor can reduce overall risk, but it does not guarantee prevention. So the statement that best fits is that the chances of getting the disease are increased. For example, smoking raises the risk of lung cancer, but not every smoker develops it, and some non-smokers do.