Which statement best describes an environmental risk factor?

• A. Industrial workers are exposed to certain chemicals
• B. Pregnant women need extra nutrition
• C. Regular physical activity reduces risk
• D. Healthy sleep patterns

Answer: (A)

Environmental risk factors are external conditions or exposures in a person’s surroundings that can increase the chance of disease or harm. Being exposed to certain chemicals in an industrial setting is a direct external exposure from the workplace environment, so it exemplifies an environmental risk factor. The other options describe internal needs or behaviors—nutritional requirements, physical activity, and sleep—that affect health but are not external environmental hazards. Thus, chemical exposure in the workplace best fits the idea of an environmental risk factor.