Which option correctly pairs a common heavy metal with a health effect?

• A. Lead — neurotoxicity; Mercury — neuro- and kidney-toxicity; Cadmium — kidney damage and bone weakness
• B. Lead — improved cognitive function; Mercury — beneficial; Cadmium — none
• C. Lead — skin irritation; Mercury — hair growth; Cadmium — immune boost
• D. Lead — liver cancer; Mercury — no effect; Cadmium — kidney protection

Answer: (A)

Heavy metals can disrupt the nervous system, kidneys, bones, and other tissues, and each metal has well-known toxic effects. Lead is neurotoxic, especially harming developing brains and cognitive function. Mercury affects both the nervous system and kidneys, leading to neurotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. Cadmium tends to damage the kidneys and can weaken bones through interference with calcium metabolism. So the pairing that matches each metal with its established health effect is: Lead with neurotoxicity, Mercury with neuro- and kidney-toxicity, and Cadmium with kidney damage and bone weakness.

The other options describe effects that aren’t supported by toxicology of these metals, such as claimed improvements in function, benefits, skin reactions, hair growth, immune boosts, or protection, which aren’t characteristics of these metals’ health impacts.