Unhealthy Lifestyle Factors and Non-Modifiable Risk Factors for Chronic Disease

Health risk factors fall into two categories:

Modifiable Lifestyle Factors

• Physical inactivity
• Poor diet (high ultra-processed, low fiber)
• Smoking/vaping
• Excessive alcohol
• Recreational drug use
• Chronic stress
• Sleep deprivation (<7 hrs/night)

Non-Modifiable Factors

• Age
• Genetics/family history
• Sex
• Race/ethnicity (social determinants)
• Early-life exposures

Environmental & Social Determinants

• Air/water pollution, toxins
• Food insecurity, food deserts
• Occupational hazards
• Healthcare access/quality
• Social isolation, discrimination

Focus on what you can change. Even small improvements in diet, activity, sleep, and stress reduce risk significantly. Discuss personal risk profile with your clinician for tailored prevention.