Carcinogen

A biological, chemical, or physical agent that can cause cancer by initiating or promoting the development of malignant cells.

DNA damage: Alteration of DNA’s chemical structure or sequence by physical, chemical, or biological agents. Many carcinogens initiate cancer by creating mutations or other persistent genetic lesions.
IARC Monographs: Evaluations by the International Agency for Research on Cancer of agents and exposures that may cause cancer. These monographs assess evidence linking specific exposures to cancer in humans and experimental animals.
Carcinogenicity: The capacity of an agent or exposure to cause cancer under specified conditions. The term describes cancer-causing capacity, while classifications assess evidence for that capacity.
Asbestos: A group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals formerly used widely in construction and industry. Inhaled asbestos fibers cause mesothelioma and increase the risk of lung cancer.
Mutagen: An agent that increases the frequency of genetic mutations. Some carcinogens are mutagens, though mutation-causing ability alone does not establish carcinogenicity.
National Toxicology Program Report on Carcinogens: A U.S. government report identifying substances, mixtures, and exposures known or reasonably anticipated to cause cancer. It provides a separate evidence-based listing used in U.S. public health and regulation.
Cancer risk: The probability that a person or population will develop cancer over a specified period. A carcinogen’s hazard does not by itself determine the risk at a particular dose or exposure.
Benzene: A volatile aromatic hydrocarbon used as an industrial chemical and present in some fuels and emissions. Chronic benzene exposure can cause leukemia, especially acute myeloid leukemia.
Oncogene: A gene whose abnormal activation can drive cell growth and contribute to cancer. Mutations induced by carcinogens can activate oncogenes and promote uncontrolled growth.
Occupational cancer: Cancer associated with exposures encountered in workplaces. Workplace carcinogens can be controlled through exposure limits, substitution, and protective measures.

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