Introduction. Chemical, physical or biological factors that can cause the formation and expansion of cancer cells are diverse in terms of both activity and mechanisms of action, which leads to the complexity of assessing the risk of developing malignant neoplasms. The aim. Discussion of the classification of carcinogens based on their ability to interact with DNA cell and possible mechanisms of genetic control of carcinogenesis processes induced by non-genotoxic carcinogens. Core content. The article draws attention to some controversial points related to the attribution of factors acting on the body to genotoxic or non-genotoxic carcinogens. The terminology used in the literature to describe genotoxic (mutagenic) and carcinogenic factors is presented. The mechanisms of action of non-genotoxic carcinogens are discussed. The important role of experts determining the danger to public health of factors with potential genotoxicity and carcinogenicity is noted. Conclusion. Non-genotoxic carcinogens are capable of inducing malignant growth through mechanisms not associated with direct damage to genetic structures in the cell. However, the realization of carcinogenic effects caused by such factors is determined by various mechanisms of genetic control.