A Fetus's Exposure to ____ is the Leading Preventable Cause

Question

A fetus's exposure to ____ is the leading preventable cause of birth defects.
A) alcohol
B) X-rays
C) viruses
D) thalidomide
E) Toxoplasma gondii

Accepted Answer

Fetal exposure to alcohol is the leading preventable cause of birth defects, including fetal alcohol syndrome and related conditions. The consumption of alcohol during pregnancy can lead to cognitive and behavioral abnormalities, as well as physical defects, in the developing fetus. Exposure to X-rays, viruses, thalidomide, and Toxoplasma gondii can also cause birth defects, but are not the leading preventable cause.