Final answer:
Disease can be caused by both physical and chemical agents. Notable chemical agents include heavy metals like mercury and lead, pesticides, and industrial pollutants and may result in both acute and chronic health effects. Chemical warfare agents and household products can also pose significant health risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
Disease can be initiated by various physical and chemical agents. Some notable culprits include heavy metals such as mercury, lead, and cadmium; these accumulate in the environment and magnify through food chains, potentially leading to toxic exposure in humans. Chronic exposure to these metals has been linked to neurological disorders, developmental delays, and other health issues. Furthermore, infectious diseases from biological agents like bacteria, viruses, and parasites still contribute significantly to global mortality. Pesticides and industrial pollutants, which often contain chemical agents such as dioxins and endocrine disrupters, can be hazardous to both humans and the ecosystem. These substances can enter the body through various routes, including ingestion, inhalation, and dermal absorption, posing risks such as acute toxicity or chronic health conditions.
Chemical agents used in warfare, referred to as chemical warfare agents, can also have devastating health effects. Moreover, household products and industrial activities can expose individuals to high-risk chemicals. Those who handle such substances, like agricultural workers, retail staff, and emergency responders, are particularly at risk for related illnesses.