Which of the following best describes how lead in the environment can affect children?

Lead in the environment can have profound and serious health issues, particularly for children. Exposure to lead can result in developmental delays, lower IQ levels, attention problems, and various learning disabilities. Children are particularly vulnerable because their developing bodies can absorb lead more efficiently than adults, and because they are more likely to engage in behaviors that increase exposure, such as putting objects in their mouths.

Chronic exposure can also lead to physical health issues such as damage to the nervous system, kidney function impairment, and increased risk of anemia. The effects of lead exposure can accumulate over time and result in long-term consequences that can disable their ability to thrive both mentally and physically. Thus, understanding the severity of lead exposure is crucial, especially when it comes to safeguarding children's health and development from environmental risks.