Lead exposure is primarily associated with which of the following systems?

Lead exposure is primarily associated with the nervous system due to the toxic effects that lead has on neuronal function and development. When lead enters the body, it can affect both the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS). In children, even low levels of lead exposure can lead to cognitive deficits, developmental delays, and behavioral issues, demonstrating the significant impact on neurological health.

In adults, chronic lead exposure can lead to peripheral neuropathy, which is characterized by numbness, weakness, and pain in the extremities. Additionally, lead can interfere with neurotransmitter release and induce oxidative stress, further damaging neural tissues. This connection between lead exposure and neurological impairment underlines the critical importance of monitoring and controlling lead levels in occupational and environmental settings to prevent adverse health outcomes.