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.
But drug use is still deeply intertwined with homelessness, both as a risk factor and an effect of losing housing, the researchers wrote. Doug Smith, Los Angeles Times, 27 Feb. 2025 The results indicate that TIA is an independent risk factor for cognitive decline, and that more aggressive treatment is needed to minimize cognitive risk, the authors concluded. Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 14 Feb. 2025 Additionally, 72% of U.S. adults have an unhealthy weight, with nearly 42% of adults having obesity, which also is a risk factor for developing cardiovascular disease, according to the AHA report. Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 27 Jan. 2025 Here are 5 things to know At the same time, BMI alone has long been known to be a major risk factor for the development of serious chronic ailments. Faye Chiu, CNN, 24 Jan. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Risk factor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/risk%20factor. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.

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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