Dictionary of Cancer Terms
View in Spanish: Mutágeno
Mutagen (MYOO-tuh-jen)
Anything that causes a mutation (a change in the DNA of a cell). DNA changes caused by mutagens may harm cells and cause certain diseases, such as cancer. Examples of mutagens include radioactive substances, x-rays, ultraviolet radiation, and certain chemicals.
Source: National Cancer Institute Dictionary of Cancer Terms, available at www.cancer.gov/dictionary.