Question: According to the reference cited below, “Mercury, particularly methylmercury, is known to be neurotoxic to humans. Vulnerability of the central nervous system to these substances is increased during early development, especially during the prenatal period.” What is currently considered to be the major source for human exposure to mercury?
Answer: The cited reference notes “Diet is currently considered the major source contributing to mercury exposure levels, especially consumption of marine species. Predatory fish such as swordfish, shark, and tuna have the highest concentrations of methylmercury. Moreover, methylmercury bioaccessibility in these fishes, for example, swordfish, may reach 94%. Several studies have confirmed a relation between mercury blood levels in humans and fish consumption. (Llop S et al. Prenatal exposure to mercury and infant neurodevelopment in a multicenter cohort in Spain: Study of potential modifiers. 2012 Am J Epidem 175(5): 451-465)