What term describes an agent that increases the risk of cancer?

The term that describes an agent that increases the risk of cancer is cancer. Carcinogens are substances that can lead to the development of cancer by causing changes to the DNA within cells, which can disrupt normal cellular processes. These agents may be chemical, physical, or biological in nature.

Carcinogens are classified into various categories based on their ability to cause cancer in humans and animals, with some being more strongly associated with cancer risk than others. Examples of carcinogens include tobacco smoke, asbestos, certain chemicals like benzene, and even some viral infections such as human papillomavirus (HPV).

In contrast, toxins refer to harmful substances that can cause a wide range of health issues, not limited to cancer. Pathogens are microorganisms that can cause disease, and while some can contribute to cancer (the way certain viruses can), they do not all have a direct carcinogenic effect. Mutagens are agents that cause changes or mutations in the DNA but do not necessarily have to lead to cancer; not all mutagens are carcinogens, though many carcinogens are indeed mutagenic. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for recognizing how various substances can impact human health.