Behavior
protective factor Audio
pro·tec·tive fac·tor [ proh-tek-tiv fak-ter ]
Subclass of:
Etiology; Risk
Definitions related to protective factors:
  • Something that may decrease the chance of getting a certain disease. Some examples of protective factors for cancer are getting regular physical activity, staying at a healthy weight, and having a healthy diet.
    NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • An aspect of personal behavior or lifestyle, environmental exposure, or inborn or inherited characteristic, which, on the basis of epidemiologic evidence, is known to be associated with prevention or mitigation of a health-related condition considered important to prevent.
    NLM Medical Subject Headings
    U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2021
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