How do toxic substances in the lithosphere affect human health?
Toxic substances in the lithosphere can enter the human body through various pathways, including inhalation, ingestion, and dermal contact. For instance, heavy metals like lead and arsenic can contaminate drinking water sources, leading to chronic health issues such as neurological disorders, kidney damage, and cancer. Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in the soil can enter the food chain, accumulating in animal and plant tissues, thereby affecting human health through dietary exposure.
