Pesticides can be absorbed into the body by breathing.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not sure
• D. Depends

Answer: (A)

Inhalation is a real exposure route for pesticides. Pesticides can become airborne as sprays, mists, or vapors, so you can breathe them in during mixing, loading, spraying, or from spray drift. The lungs have a large, moist surface that allows many pesticides to diffuse into the bloodstream, leading to systemic exposure. How much is absorbed depends on factors like the pesticide’s volatility and formulation, the size of the droplets or particles, the concentration and duration of exposure, and whether you’re using proper respiratory protection and ventilation. Even pesticides that aren’t highly volatile can be inhaled if you’re exposed to mist or spray droplets. That’s why using appropriate PPE and ensuring good ventilation are important to minimize inhalation exposure.