What is a carcinogen?

A carcinogen is defined as a substance that is capable of causing cancer in living tissue. This definition encompasses a wide range of materials, including chemicals, pollutants, and even certain types of radiation. The classification of a substance as a carcinogen is based on evidence from scientific research that demonstrates its potential to induce cancerous changes in cells.

In various contexts, carcinogens can be found in everyday products, environmental factors, and certain occupational exposures. Understanding what constitutes a carcinogen is crucial for public health, safety regulations, and risk assessments, as it helps in identifying materials that should be handled with caution to minimize cancer risk among individuals.

In contrast to other choices, a material that helps with pest control, a substance causing birth defects, and a non-toxic pesticide do not directly relate to the definition of a carcinogen. They refer to different categories of substances and their effects on health or the environment. Thus, the identification of a carcinogen as something that specifically causes cancer is essential for awareness and safety in various industries, including pest control.