Causal agent

A causal agent is the specific factor or entity responsible for causing a particular effect or outcome. In health or science, it often refers to the microorganism, chemical, or environmental factor that directly leads to a disease or result. For example, bacteria causing an infection or a chemical causing a reaction. Understanding the causal agent helps in diagnosing, preventing, and treating issues by targeting the root cause effectively. It is a fundamental concept in fields like medicine, epidemiology, and science for identifying what triggers specific effects.