Health effects of automobile exhaust – Leaded petrol: Inhalation of lead compounds emitted from vehicles using leaded gasoline can cause which of the following health effects?

Introduction / Context:
Leaded gasoline historically introduced inorganic lead into urban air via exhaust. Although phased out in many countries, understanding the health impacts remains crucial for environmental health education and legacy site management.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Exposure pathway: inhalation of airborne lead compounds.
• Health endpoints: hematologic, neurologic, and systemic toxicity are recognized for lead.

Concept / Approach:
Lead interferes with heme synthesis causing anaemia, accumulates in bone, and is neurotoxic. Chronic exposure leads to cognitive deficits, peripheral neuropathy, and in severe cases encephalopathy. The umbrella term plumbism encompasses systemic lead poisoning, including gastrointestinal and renal effects.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Map toxicological pathways to symptoms: heme pathway inhibition → anaemia; neuronal disruption → neurological disorders; systemic toxicity → blood poisoning.Recognize that all listed effects are established outcomes of lead exposure.

Verification / Alternative check:
Epidemiological studies show reduced IQ and neurobehavioral changes in children with elevated blood lead; workers exposed to lead fumes/dust present anaemia and neuropathy.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Only respiratory irritation: lead’s primary chronic harms are systemic; simple irritation understates risk.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming only children are at risk; adults also suffer hematologic and neurologic effects. Confusing short-term irritation with chronic systemic toxicity.

Final Answer:
All of the above