Health Risk Factor Categories: Unmodifiable, Modifiable, Environmental

1. Unmodifiable

• Age
• Sex
• Race/ethnicity
• Family history / genetics

2. Modifiable (Lifestyle/Behavioral)

• Tobacco use
• Poor diet (high sodium, saturated fat, added sugar; low fiber)
• Physical inactivity
• Excessive alcohol
• Illicit drug use
• Chronic stress / poor sleep

3. Environmental

• Air pollution (PM2.5, ozone)
• Water contaminants (lead, PFAS, microbes)
• Soil toxins (heavy metals, pesticides)
• Occupational exposures (asbestos, silica, benzene)
• Noise pollution
• Built environment (walkability, green space, food access)

Public health targets modifiable and environmental factors for greatest population impact.