What are potential health effects of lead exposure in adults?

Lead exposure in adults is particularly concerning due to its well-documented effects on various bodily systems. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is one of the significant health risks associated with lead exposure. This occurs because lead can interfere with the body's ability to regulate blood pressure and cause damage to blood vessels, ultimately leading to cardiovascular disease.

In addition to hypertension, lead exposure can result in kidney damage. The kidneys are vital for filtering waste from the blood, and lead can accumulate in renal tissues, impairing their function. This may result in chronic kidney disease, which can have further health implications, including an increased risk of heart disease and the requirement for dialysis in severe cases.

In contrast, options mentioning respiratory issues and dental problems may occur due to other environmental factors or conditions but are not directly linked to lead exposure. Additionally, while asthma and obesity are significant health concerns, they are not established effects of lead toxicity. Lastly, skin irritations are typically not associated with lead exposure, and while arthritis affects a considerable number of adults, it does not have a direct connection to lead exposure. Thus, the selection that focuses on hypertension and kidney damage aligns with recognized health effects of lead in adults.