Which of the following is a potential source of lead exposure for children?

Household dust is a well-known potential source of lead exposure for children, primarily because older homes may have lead-based paint that deteriorates over time, creating dust particles that can be inhaled or ingested. Children are particularly vulnerable to lead exposure because they often put their hands or objects in their mouths and tend to play on the floor where dust accumulates.

In addition to lead-based paint, dust can also accumulate from contaminated soil, which might be brought indoors on shoes or through other means. This makes household dust a significant factor in lead poisoning for children, emphasizing the importance of regular cleaning and maintenance in homes, especially those built before 1978 when the U.S. banned the use of lead in residential paint.

Other options, while they can contribute to overall lead exposure, do not specifically highlight the acute risk that household dust poses within the home environment where children spend most of their time. Understanding the pathways of lead exposure is crucial for implementing effective prevention strategies, particularly for young children who are more susceptible to the harmful effects of lead.