Soil Contamination: Effects on Human Health

Natural minerals are not typically considered soil contaminants unless they are present in unusually high concentrations or are toxic.

Leaded gasoline was a major source of lead contamination in soil, particularly in urban areas, before it was phased out in most countries.

Soil contamination can lead to exposure through ingestion (e.g., eating contaminated vegetables), inhalation (e.g., dust containing contaminants), and dermal contact (e.g., playing in contaminated soil).

Vitamin deficiencies are not typically associated with exposure to soil contaminated with heavy metals.

Leaching is the process by which contaminants are dissolved in water and move through the soil profile.

Organic matter content has the greatest influence on the mobility of contaminants because it can bind to contaminants and reduce their movement through the soil profile.

Soil contamination can affect human health through direct contact, ingestion of contaminated food, and inhalation of contaminated dust.

Benzene is a known carcinogen and is commonly found in soil contaminated with petroleum products.

Biodegradation is the process by which contaminants are broken down by microorganisms in the soil.

Lead is a known neurotoxin and can cause a variety of neurological disorders, particularly in children.

Volatilization is the process by which contaminants are released into the atmosphere from the soil.

Cadmium is a known nephrotoxin and can cause kidney damage, particularly in长期暴露.

Adsorption is the process by which contaminants are attached to soil particles.

PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) are known endocrine disruptors and can cause reproductive problems in both men and women.

Leaching is the process by which contaminants are transported through the soil profile by water.