Which of the following is a common risk factor for disease?

• A. Regular dental checkups.
• B. Physical activity.
• C. Smoking or tobacco product use.
• D. Vaccination.

Answer: (C)

Risk factors are behaviors or exposures that raise the chance of developing disease. Smoking or use of tobacco products fits this description because the chemicals in tobacco damage cells, cause chronic inflammation, and increase the risk of many diseases such as lung cancer, COPD, heart disease, and stroke. It’s a modifiable risk factor, meaning quitting can lower risk over time, which is why it’s emphasized in health education and prevention efforts. In contrast, regular dental checkups are part of preventive care, physical activity actually lowers disease risk, and vaccination protects against infections and reduces disease risk. So smoking stands out as a common risk factor among the options.