27. Birth defects may be caused by a variety of environmental agents, called _________________, which include some bacteria and viruses, various drugs and chemicals, and radiation.

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The question asks about birth defects caused by environmental agents and defines a category that includes bacteria and viruses, various drugs and chemicals, and radiation.
Since the answer field gives 'teratogens' as the correct response, we can anchor our explanation to the established concept that teratogens are agents that can cause congenital abnormalities or birth defects when a fetus is exposed during development.
Consider what teratogens encompass: infections from bacteria or viruses can interfere with fetal development; certain medications (like some antiepileptics, isotretinoin, or thalidomide in historical contexts) have well-documented teratogenic effects; chemicals such as alcohol or solvents can disrupt developmental processes; and radiation exposure, particularly ionizing radiation, is a known risk factor for congenital anomalies.
Now, given that the options list is empty in the provided data, we cannot evaluate each distractor or alternative statement. In a typical multiple-choice item, one would compare each option against the definition of teratogens and assess accuracy:
- If an option claims birth defects are caused by environmental agents not known to cause fetal harm, it would be incorrect.
- If an option states that only one type of agent can cause birth defects, it would be incorrect because teratogens encompass a broad range of agents.
- If an option misses the developmental timing nuance (e.g., teratogenic risk depends on the gestational age), it would be incomplete but not entirely false; timing is a crucial aspect of teratogenicity.
- If an option redefines teratogens as purely genetic factors, that would be inaccurate, since teratogens are environmental and/or exogenous factors, not inherited genetic mutations per se.
In summary, teratogens are the umbrella term for environmental agents capable of inducing birth defects, spanning infectious agents, drugs, chemicals, and radiation, which aligns with the description given in the question.

Principles of Public Health Online Remote Midterm Exam (100 pts/33 questions/3 pts each and 1 question for 1 pt) (WK1-WK5) Reminder: Be sure to read the book and review the slides

27. Birth defects may be caused by a variety of environmental agents, called _________________, which include some bacteria and viruses, various drugs and chemicals, and radiation.

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