Exposure to untreated industrial effluents is known to cause several

Exposure to untreated industrial effluents is known to cause several multi-organ pathologies in humans. A study carried out among the community living along the banks of River Berad, site to several industries emitting effluents, revealed that a majority of the population is afflicted with diseases of the immune and the endocrine systems. Some health officials have held the view that industries along the Berad are responsible for this situation. Their claim is not undermined by the fact that the drinking water in the community, which is sourced only from the Berad, treated and then supplied to the people, has tested negative for the effluents.

Which of following strengthens the health officials’ claim in face of the undermining evidence?

A. Government regulations regarding the treatment of effluents before being emptied into the water resources require strict adherence and carry heavy penalties for any deviations.

B. The agricultural community along the Berad is self-sufficient in its food supply with most of its produce coming from the fields irrigated by the Berad.

C. The Municipal Corporation of the community uses the highest grade of chloramine, a residual disinfectant, before the distribution of water.

D. Diseases of the immune and the endocrine systems can be caused by autoimmune responses triggered by toxic substances making their way into the bodies of the people.

E. The Municipal Corporation of the community has been regularly receiving complaints about increasing incidences of Asthma, a respiratory disorder also caused by heavy air pollution.