Consider the following health hazards: 1. Lowering of IQ in children. 2. Lowering of systolic blood pressure. 3. Reduced RBC survival and reduced haem biosynthesis. 4. Higher rates of miscarriages, stillbirths and pre-term deliveries. Which of the above are associated with environmental lead exposure?
Health Hazards Associated with Environmental Lead Exposure
This solution identifies the health hazards directly linked to environmental lead exposure based on established scientific understanding.
Analysis of Health Hazards
- 1. Lowering of IQ in children: Environmental lead exposure is a well-documented cause of neurodevelopmental problems in children. Lead acts as a neurotoxin, impairing brain development and function, which can result in a lowered IQ. This hazard is associated with lead exposure.
- 2. Lowering of systolic blood pressure: Lead exposure is typically associated with an *increase* in blood pressure (hypertension), particularly in adults, rather than a lowering. Therefore, this hazard is generally not considered an effect of lead exposure.
- 3. Reduced RBC survival and reduced haem biosynthesis: Lead interferes with critical enzymes involved in the production of heme, a component of hemoglobin. This disruption leads to reduced red blood cell (RBC) survival and impaired haem biosynthesis, causing or exacerbating anemia. This hazard is associated with lead exposure.
- 4. Higher rates of miscarriages, stillbirths and pre-term deliveries: Lead is recognized as a reproductive toxin. Exposure can negatively impact reproductive health in both men and women, increasing the risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes such as miscarriage, stillbirth, and premature birth. This hazard is associated with lead exposure.
Conclusion on Lead Exposure Effects
Based on the analysis, the health hazards associated with environmental lead exposure are:
- 1. Lowering of IQ in children.
- 3. Reduced RBC survival and reduced haem biosynthesis.
- 4. Higher rates of miscarriages, stillbirths and pre-term deliveries.
Therefore, the correct combination includes hazards 1, 3, and 4.
Important Questions from Chemical Poisoning
Consider the following statements regarding organophosphate-induced delayed polyneuropathy (OPIDN) :
1. It is a rare complication and occurs 2 - 3 weeks after acute exposure.
2. It is a feature of poisoning with certain organophosphorus compounds such as triorthocresyl phosphate.
3. Inhibition of acetylcholinesterase causes motor polyneuropathy with no evidence of sensory loss.
4. There is no specific therapy although regular physiotherapy may limit deformity caused by muscle wasting.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- The toxic effects of aluminium phosphide is due to the release of:
- Use of calcium carbide for the artificial ripening of fruits is banned but it is often reported to be illegally used. What is/are the likely health hazards of exposure to this chemical?
1. Permanent damage to the eyes
2. Pulmonary edema
3. Irritation of mouth, throat and nose
Select the correct answer using the codes given below: - Which of the following statements is correct regarding Malachite that is used as food adulterant?
Which of the following parts of the human body can be used as a sample/samples for the presence of mercury?
1. Blood
2. Hair
3. Nail
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
