What is defined as a factor associated with an increased likelihood of an event occurring (such as disease)?

• A. A factor associated with a decreased likelihood of an event.
• B. A factor associated with an increased likelihood of an event occurring (such as disease)
• C. A factor that is always causal
• D. A factor used only in experimental studies

Answer: (B)

A risk factor is a characteristic, exposure, or attribute that is statistically associated with a higher probability of a health event, such as disease. This means the event occurs more often in people who have the factor than in those who do not. It’s important to note that association does not prove causation—the factor may be linked to the disease through another causal factor or due to confounding.

This is why the described option is the best choice: it directly defines a factor that increases the likelihood of an event. A factor associated with decreased likelihood would be a protective factor, not a risk factor. A factor that is always causal isn’t required for an association to exist, and risk factors can be identified in observational studies as well as experimental ones.