Examples of Risk Factors
Biology: AQA GCSE Higher, topic 2.4.6
Risk Factors
Many links have been identified between risk factors and the probability of getting certain diseases. Scientists investigate links to make sure that the risk factor is causing the disease and not something else. Finding causal mechanisms is the way to prove a link. Examples of such mechanisms:
Cardiovascular disease
- Poor diet, smoking and lack of exercise are proven risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
Obesity
- Obesity is a proven risk factor for Type 2 diabetes.
Liver and brain damage
- Excessive alcohol intake is a risk factor for liver and brain damage.
Lung diseases
- Smoking is a proven risk factor for lung diseases.
Cancer
- Exposure to ionising radiation (radiation that can damage cells) is a proven risk factor for cancer.
Low birth weight of babies
- Smoking during pregnancy is a proven risk factor for the low birth weight of babies.
Brain damage in babies
- Excessive alcohol consumption during pregnancy is a proven risk factor for brain damage in babies.
Test yourself on Examples of Risk Factors
Which two organs does excessive alcohol drinking put at risk of damage?
Why is exposure to ionising radiation a proven risk factor for cancer?
Why do scientists look for a causal mechanism after finding a link between a risk factor and a disease?
What does it mean for obesity to be a proven risk factor for type 2 diabetes?
A patient has a poor diet, does not exercise and is obese. Based on the proven risk factors described, which two diseases are they more likely to develop?