Which factor is known to be genetic in the context of asthma?

The genetic factor in the context of asthma is family history of asthma. Research has shown that asthma tends to run in families, indicating a hereditary component to the disease. Individuals with a family history of asthma are more likely to develop the condition themselves due to shared genetic predispositions that can influence the immune system and inflammatory responses.

This genetic influence can manifest in various ways, including the tendency for the body to react to allergens and irritants, leading to asthma symptoms. Studies suggest that both environmental and genetic factors contribute to asthma, but having a family history is one of the most significant risk factors.

In contrast, exposure to smoke, pollen allergies, and obesity are more environmental or lifestyle-related factors that can exacerbate or trigger asthma symptoms but are not classified as genetic. These factors can influence the development or severity of asthma in individuals with a genetic predisposition but do not themselves imply a hereditary link.