risk factor

noun

: something that increases risk or susceptibility

Examples of risk factor in a Sentence

Age is one of the risk factors for this disease.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Obesity is a major risk factor for OSA, a condition characterized by disordered breathing during sleep due to blockages in the airway. Claire Bugos, Verywell Health, 23 Dec. 2024 Poor diet is a risk factor for many of the leading causes of death in the U.S., including heart disease, stroke, diabetes and some types of cancer. Karen Kaplan, Los Angeles Times, 20 Dec. 2024 Inflammation has a bad rap, both as an agent of pain and a risk factor for chronic illnesses like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer. Erica Sloan, SELF, 18 Dec. 2024 In the United States, 70% of football players are under age 14, and there are preliminary findings that youth tackle football may be a risk factor for CTE. Beryl Rosenstein, Baltimore Sun, 9 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for risk factor 

Word History

First Known Use

1949, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of risk factor was in 1949

Dictionary Entries Near risk factor

Cite this Entry

“Risk factor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/risk%20factor. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

risk factor

noun
: something that increases the possibility that something bad will happen
cigarette smoking is a risk factor for lung cancer

Medical Definition

risk factor

noun
: something that increases risk or susceptibility
poorly controlled hypertension is a risk factor for coronary heart disease

More from Merriam-Webster on risk factor

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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