What is a Carcinogen?

A carcinogen is a type of mutagen, a substance or agent known to cause cancer. Carcinogens can either be a physical agent or a chemical agent. They can either be naturally occurring substances or man-made substances. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a carcinogen is a substance that can cause cancer in humans or animals.

What Are Common Sources of Carcinogens?

Man-made carcinogens are produced through industrial activities such as burning fossil fuels, working with certain chemicals and manufacturing processes. Common sources of carcinogens in the environment include pesticides, tobacco smoke, and air pollutants like benzene and asbestos. Other common sources are foods contaminated with carcinogenic substances and radiation exposure from sources such as X-rays and nuclear power plants.

How Can I Reduce My Risk of Exposure to Carcinogens?

The best way to reduce your risk of exposure to carcinogenic substances is to avoid them as much as possible. Avoiding certain activities, such as smoking, can reduce your risk of exposure to carcinogens. It is also important to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise and plenty of rest. Additionally, you can reduce your risk by taking measures to reduce your exposure to air pollutants, such as wearing appropriate protective gear or limiting your exposure to air by staying indoors. Finally, you can reduce your risk of exposure to carcinogenic substances by avoiding contact with them in your home or workplace.