Materials such as benzene, asbestos, and arsenic are known as:

• A. Mutagens
• B. Teratogens
• C. Carcinogens
• D. Neurotoxins

Answer: (C)

Carcinogens are substances that can initiate or promote cancer by causing cellular damage that leads to uncontrolled growth. Benzene, asbestos, and arsenic have well-established links to cancer in humans—benzene with leukemia, asbestos with mesothelioma and lung cancer, and arsenic with skin cancer and other internal cancers. While mutagens cause genetic mutations and teratogens cause birth defects, and neurotoxins affect the nervous system, these substances are categorized as carcinogens because their exposure increases the risk of developing cancer. Recognizing them as carcinogens informs protective measures to minimize exposure, such as reducing contact time, maintaining distance, using appropriate personal protective equipment, and monitoring for contamination.