Which of the following is a risk factor for vulvar carcinoma?

• A. Female gender
• B. Age under 30
• C. Cigarette smoking
• D. Obesity

Answer: (C)

Vulvar carcinoma is a type of cancer that primarily affects the external female genitalia. Among the known risk factors for this condition, cigarette smoking stands out as a significant contributor. Smoking is associated with a variety of cancers, including vulvar cancer, due to the carcinogenic substances in tobacco that can lead to DNA damage and mutations in the tissues.

In contrast, while being female is necessary for vulvar carcinoma, it is not a modifiable risk factor like smoking. Age under 30 is typically not associated with an increased risk for vulvar cancer, as the condition is more prevalent in older women. Obesity, while it has connections to various malignancies, is not as strongly linked to vulvar carcinoma specifically as cigarette smoking is.

Understanding the modifiable risk factors, such as smoking, can help in prevention strategies and underscore the importance of lifestyle choices in cancer risk.