leadingcause
nounUK /ˌliː.dɪŋ ˈkɔːz/
US /ˌliː.dɪŋ ˈkɔːz/
The main reason something happens.
Smoking is a leading cause of lung disease.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The most common reason for a problem or event.
Car accidents are a leading cause of injury among teenagers.
3. The number one factor that makes something happen.
Poor diet is a leading cause of heart problems.
4. The main thing responsible for a result.
The leading cause of the fire was faulty wiring.