Is it genes or lifestyle or both that make it likely to get charcot-marie-tooth?

Genes.: Charcot-marie-tooth disease is actually a group of genetically distinct disorders that have similar symptoms;it's the most common inherited neurologic disorder. Its symptoms start before 20 yrs old and include slowly progressing weakness starting in the muscles of the ends of the limbs (usually legs first).This leads to poor finger control, difficulty walking & frequent tripping.

Genetics Only: As dr juster points out, it is strictly an inherited problem.

Genetic disorder: Charcot Marie Tooth is a neurmuscular disorder that is genetically based. It is not acquired by lifestyle issues.