Which term describes a substance that can cause cancer?

• A. Carcinogen
• B. Allergen
• C. Irritant
• D. Mutagen

Answer: (A)

A carcinogen describes a substance that can cause cancer. It includes chemicals, radiation, or other agents that increase cancer risk by damaging DNA or promoting uncontrolled cell growth. For example, tobacco smoke contains carcinogens, and excessive sun exposure exposes you to UV radiation, a known carcinogen. An allergen triggers an allergic reaction, an irritant causes irritation, and a mutagen is an agent that causes genetic mutations (mutations can lead to cancer, but the term focused on cancer-causing potential is carcinogen).