Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) Practice Exam

What area of the body is noted for the highest absorption rate of pesticides?

1. Back

2. Head and genital areas

3. Arms

4. Knees

The correct answer is: Head and genital areas

The area of the body noted for the highest absorption rate of pesticides is the head and genital areas. This is due to several factors, including the presence of thinner skin that is more permeable and a higher density of hair follicles and sebaceous glands. The skin in these regions can allow for more efficient uptake of chemicals, including pesticides, into the bloodstream. Additionally, the head contains a large number of blood vessels just beneath the surface, which can facilitate the rapid absorption of substances. The genital area, also characterized by thinner skin, shares these properties. In contrast, other areas such as the back, arms, and knees have thicker skin layers and lower rates of absorption, making them less susceptible to pesticide uptake. Understanding these absorption characteristics is crucial, especially in the context of pesticide safety and exposure risk assessments.