The correct answer is D. Minamata disease.
Minamata disease is a neurological disorder caused by mercury poisoning. It was first identified in Minamata, Japan, in 1956, after people who ate fish from Minamata Bay began to suffer from a variety of symptoms, including numbness in the hands and feet, loss of coordination, and impaired vision and hearing. In severe cases, the disease can lead to death.
Minamata disease is caused by methylmercury, a form of mercury that is highly toxic to humans. Methylmercury is produced when mercury is released into the environment and then converted by bacteria into its methyl form. This can happen when mercury is released from industrial sources, such as coal-fired power plants, or when it is released from natural sources, such as volcanoes.
Once methylmercury is in the environment, it can be absorbed by fish and other aquatic organisms. Humans can then be exposed to methylmercury by eating fish or other seafood that has been contaminated with it.
The symptoms of Minamata disease can vary depending on the amount of methylmercury that a person has been exposed to. In mild cases, the symptoms may include numbness in the hands and feet, loss of coordination, and impaired vision and hearing. In severe cases, the disease can lead to death.
There is no cure for Minamata disease, but there are treatments that can help to manage the symptoms. Treatment may include chelation therapy, which is a process that removes mercury from the body, and supportive care, such as physical therapy and occupational therapy.
Minamata disease is a preventable disease. The best way to prevent Minamata disease is to reduce exposure to methylmercury. This can be done by eating fish that is low in mercury, such as salmon, tuna, and halibut. It is also important to avoid eating fish that is caught in areas that are known to be contaminated with mercury.
If you are concerned about your exposure to methylmercury, you should talk to your doctor.