High levels of lead in potable water may cause which of the following health issues?

High levels of lead in potable water can lead to significant health issues, particularly mental impairment in children and infants. Lead is a neurotoxin that can interfere with the development of the brain and nervous system, making young children especially vulnerable. Exposure to lead in drinking water is particularly concerning because their bodies are still developing, and even small amounts of lead can result in lasting cognitive deficits, learning disabilities, and behavioral issues.

In infants and young children, this exposure can affect their ability to learn and perform in school, potentially resulting in long-term consequences for their educational and social development. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasize that there is no safe level of lead exposure for children, underscoring the seriousness of this health risk.

While the other health issues mentioned—digestive problems in adults, skin irritations, and respiratory issues—may be associated with different contaminants or conditions, they are not primarily linked to the harmful effects of lead exposure in drinking water. Thus, the primary concern regarding high levels of lead is indeed its impact on mental health and cognitive function in vulnerable populations, specifically children and infants.