What does risk factor mean?

A risk factor is anything that increases the chance of getting a disease. Risk factors can be anything from genetics to lifestyle choices. Some risk factors can be changed, while others cannot.

For example, smoking is a risk factor for cancer, heart disease, and stroke. Obesity is a risk factor for diabetes and heart disease. And high blood pressure is a risk factor for heart disease and stroke.

Some risk factors, like genetics, cannot be changed. But others, like smoking and obesity, can. By making healthy lifestyle choices, you can reduce your risk of developing many diseases.