If mercury from tuna consumption crosses the placenta, what system in the fetus is potentially affected?
Answer
The developing nervous system
The primary health risk associated with excessive mercury intake during pregnancy is its established potential for neurotoxicity. When mercury is consumed by the pregnant individual, it possesses the ability to cross the placental barrier, meaning the developing fetus is directly exposed to the heavy metal. Once transmitted, mercury poses a risk primarily to the central nervous system of the fetus, which is undergoing rapid and crucial development both prenatally and postnatally. This potential for adverse impact on neurological function is the fundamental reason why regulatory bodies like the FDA and EPA issue stringent warnings and restrictions on high-mercury seafood consumption.
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