Final answer:
Harmful environmental agents can cause an average of 4-5 percent of birth defects. Exposure to alcohol during pregnancy is an example of a harmful agent that can result in birth defects.
Step-by-step explanation:
Harmful environmental agents, such as exposure to certain chemicals or radiation, can contribute to birth defects. Research has shown that these agents are responsible for an average of 4-5 percent of birth defects. For example, exposure to alcohol during pregnancy can lead to fetal alcohol syndrome, which can cause birth defects such as facial abnormalities and cognitive impairments.
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