Question

Which of the following can harm the growing fetus during prenatal development?
A. X-rays & radiation exposure
B. Consumption of alcohol by father
C. Smoking by mother
D. Immunizing children of the family
E. Mother getting Rubella during Pregnancy
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. A, B, E only
• B. B, C, D only
• C. A, C, E only
• D. C, D, E only

Hint:

Maternal Teratogens: Ionizing radiation (X-rays), Maternal smoking, Maternal Rubella TORCH infections, Alcohol (Fetal Alcohol Syndrome).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Teratology examines environmental agents (teratogens) that cross the placental barrier and cause congenital anomalies in utero.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Evaluating proven prenatal maternal teratogenic hazards:
1. A. Ionizing Radiation (X-rays): Causes microcephaly, chromosomal damage, and developmental delay.
2. C. Maternal Smoking (Tobacco): Carbon monoxide and nicotine restrict fetal oxygen delivery, causing low birth weight (IUGR) and preterm delivery.
3. E. Maternal Rubella (German Measles): Causes Congenital Rubella Syndrome (deafness, cataracts, cardiac defects).
(Paternal alcohol consumption and routine childhood immunization do not act as direct intrauterine teratogens).
Thus, factors A, C, and E directly harm the fetus.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Therefore, the correct choice is A, C, E only, matching option (C).