Lead exposure in children can occur via which pair of routes?

Lead exposure in children can occur via which pair of routes?

• A. Ingestion and Absorption
• B. Ingestion and Inhalation
• C. Inhalation and Absorption
• D. Absorption and Excretion

Answer: (B)

Lead exposure happens when lead-containing materials enter the body through the digestive system or the lungs. In children, ingestion occurs when they swallow dust, soil, or paint chips containing lead, or put contaminated fingers or objects in their mouths. Inhalation occurs when fine lead dust or fumes are breathed in, such as during sanding or renovation of lead-painted surfaces. Once lead is inside the body, it is absorbed into the bloodstream and distributed to tissues, but absorption and excretion describe what happens to lead inside the body rather than external entry routes. Therefore, the two main exposure routes are ingestion and inhalation.

Lead exposure happens when lead-containing materials enter the body through the digestive system or the lungs. In children, ingestion occurs when they swallow dust, soil, or paint chips containing lead, or put contaminated fingers or objects in their mouths. Inhalation occurs when fine lead dust or fumes are breathed in, such as during sanding or renovation of lead-painted surfaces. Once lead is inside the body, it is absorbed into the bloodstream and distributed to tissues, but absorption and excretion describe what happens to lead inside the body rather than external entry routes. Therefore, the two main exposure routes are ingestion and inhalation.