Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Early Childhood Practice Exam

What is the most significant risk to children posed by environmental exposure to lead?

1. Neurological impairment

2. Respiratory disease

3. Skeletal abnormalities

4. High blood pressure

The correct answer is: Neurological impairment

The most significant risk to children posed by environmental exposure to lead is neurological impairment. Lead is a neurotoxin that can have devastating effects on the developing brain, especially in young children whose brains are still growing and maturing. Exposure to lead has been scientifically linked to a range of cognitive deficits, including decreased IQ, attention problems, reduced academic achievement, and difficulties in processing information. Neurological impairment from lead exposure can lead to long-term effects that manifest as behavioral issues and learning disabilities, which can significantly impact a child's educational and social development. Moreover, the younger the child is at the time of exposure, the more severe the potential impacts, as lead can interfere with critical developmental processes. While other health issues associated with lead exposure, such as high blood pressure, respiratory disease, and skeletal abnormalities, exist, they are generally not as immediately detrimental to a child's development as the neurological effects. Therefore, when considering the overall risks to children's health and development, neurological impairment stands out as the most critical concern.