Which of the following best describes "Occupational Illness"?

• A. A condition caused by personal lifestyle choices
• B. A general illness unrelated to work
• C. A condition resulting from workplace exposure to harmful agents
• D. A temporary illness from work-related stress

Answer: (C)

"Occupational Illness" is best defined as a condition resulting from workplace exposure to harmful agents. This definition encompasses a variety of health issues that arise specifically due to factors present in the work environment, including chemical exposure, physical hazards, biological agents, and other detrimental influences linked to job duties.

Occupational illnesses can manifest as chronic health conditions, such as respiratory diseases from inhaling harmful fumes or skin conditions from prolonged exposure to irritants. By focusing on the relationship between specific workplace exposures and the resultant health effects, this definition aligns with established workplace safety guidelines and medical standards that categorize and classify health risks associated with various occupations.

In contrast, other options describe conditions that are not inherently related to occupational settings, such as personal lifestyle choices or general illnesses. Furthermore, while stress-related conditions can result from the work environment, they do not capture the broader spectrum of issues caused specifically by toxic exposures, thus reinforcing why the correct answer is centered on the workplace context.