Which statement best defines a contributing factor?

• A. A protective factor
• B. A non-modifiable determinant
• C. A risk factor (causative factor) associated with the presence/ level of a determinant
• D. A treatment option

Answer: (C)

In public health, determinants are the conditions that shape health outcomes. A contributing factor is something that increases the likelihood that a determinant is present or that its level is higher. It acts as a risk factor linked to how much or how often a determinant appears. It’s not about a protective element, which would reduce risk, nor is it a fixed, non-modifiable determinant itself, and it isn’t a treatment option. So the best way to define a contributing factor is as a risk factor (a causative factor) associated with the presence or level of a determinant.