CDPH Lead Inspector/Assessor California State Practice Exam

Where is lead mainly stored in the human body?

1. In the liver

2. In the blood

3. In bones and teeth

4. In muscles

The correct answer is: In bones and teeth

Lead is primarily stored in the bones and teeth due to its ability to mimic calcium, an essential mineral for bone health. When lead enters the body, it can replace calcium in various biochemical processes, leading to its accumulation in the skeletal system. This storage can persist for many years, as lead has a long half-life within the bones. Over time, lead can leach back into the bloodstream, especially during periods of bone mobilization, such as during pregnancy or aging, potentially leading to various health issues. Although lead can be found in the blood and to some extent in other tissues, the bones and teeth are considered the main reservoirs for lead due to the significant capacity for long-term storage. This distinction is crucial for understanding the long-term effects of lead exposure and the implications for health when assessing lead risk and conducting inspections related to lead hazards.