Which of the following is an environmental factor influencing health?

• A. Genetic Factors
• B. Behavioral Factors
• C. Air Quality
• D. Age

Answer: (C)

Environmental factors are external conditions that can influence health. Air quality fits this because exposure to pollutants in the air—like fine particulates, ozone, and indoor contaminants—can affect breathing, cardiovascular health, and susceptibility to illness. These environmental conditions can be improved or worsened by the surrounding environment and policy, independent of a person’s genes or personal choices. Genetic factors are inherited and static; behavioral factors are actions a person takes; age is a demographic characteristic. So air quality stands out as the environmental factor that can influence health.