What is considered the primary cause of disease resulting from general environmental exposure?

The primary cause of disease resulting from general environmental exposure is asbestos. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction materials and various industrial applications due to its insulating properties and resistance to fire. However, when asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can lead to serious health problems, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, a particularly aggressive form of cancer affecting the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos exposure is significant because of its widespread historical use and the subsequent long latency period between exposure and the onset of disease. This makes it a critical public health concern and a primary focus in environmental health regulation and education. While substances like TCDD, PCBs, and dioxins are also toxic and can lead to various health issues, asbestos remains one of the most well-recognized causes of disease linked specifically to environmental exposure, particularly in occupational settings and older residential areas where regulations on its use have only recently become stringent.