Final answer:
Individuals are mainly exposed to toxins through inhalation, dermal absorption, ingestion, and injection. Air toxics, occupational hazards, contaminated food, and drinking water are common sources. Monitoring and managing environmental and industrial exposures can help mitigate health risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
People are exposed to toxins in various ways, with the four main routes of exposure being inhalation, dermal absorption, ingestion, and injection. Inhalation is one of the most common forms of exposure, particularly to air toxics from human-made sources like vehicles and industrial activities, as well as natural occurrences like forest fires.
Dermal absorption often occurs in occupational settings where skin contact with chemicals is common. Ingestion can occur through contaminated food and drinking water, particularly with pesticide residues or toxic metals like arsenic. Lastly, injection, though less common, can happen through medical procedures or, in rare cases, through contaminated sharp injuries.
Environmental factors and human activities such as mining, agricultural practices, and burning fossil fuels can lead to increased exposure to toxins. Certain populations may be at higher risk due to local industrial emissions or proximity to contaminated sites. It is important to identify and manage these exposures to minimize health risks.