Paul is an employee who caught a disease unique to the trade in which he was exposed to. Paul has a(n) ________.

The correct term to describe the condition Paul is experiencing is "occupational disease." An occupational disease is defined as a health issue that is directly linked to the work environment or specific trade, resulting from exposure to harmful substances or conditions typical to that occupation. Since Paul has contracted a disease unique to the trade in which he was involved, it fits the characteristics of an occupational disease.

In contrast, the other options do not apply to this scenario. A genetic predisposition refers to an inherited likelihood of developing a condition due to genetic factors, which does not relate to specific trade exposure. A worksite malady implies a broader concept of illness related to the workplace but lacks the precise legal definition and specificity of an occupational disease. Lastly, a contagious disease refers to illnesses that can be easily spread from one person to another, which is not the case in this instance where the illness arises specifically from work-related exposure rather than person-to-person transmission.