INBDE (Integrated National Board Dental Examination) Practice Exam

What is considered causally associated with the disease, such as smoking leading to periodontal disease?

1. Risk Factor

2. Risk Determinant

3. Risk Indicator

4. Risk Marker

The correct answer is: Risk Factor

A risk factor is a physical or behavioral characteristic that has been identified as increasing the likelihood of developing a certain disease. It is considered causally associated because there is evidence to suggest that it directly contributes to the development of the disease. In contrast, risk determinants, indicators, and markers are not necessarily causally associated with the disease and may only be correlated with it. Risk determinants refer to factors that may indirectly contribute to the development of the disease, while indicators and markers are used to measure the risk of developing the disease but are not necessarily causing it. Therefore, in the context of smoking and periodontal disease, smoking would be considered a risk factor as it has been shown to directly cause or contribute to the development of periodontal disease.