Which statement about mercury exposure is accurate?

The accurate statement is that mercury can be found in certain fish and seafood. This is important because mercury, particularly in its methylmercury form, bioaccumulates in aquatic food chains. Fish such as shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish tend to have higher levels of methylmercury due to their position in the food chain and their longer lifespans. Regular consumption of these types of fish can lead to elevated mercury levels in humans, potentially causing neurological and developmental issues.

Understanding the presence of mercury in seafood is vital for public health recommendations, particularly for vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, nursing mothers, and young children. Hence, awareness of which fish are safe to consume is fundamental in mitigating the health risks associated with mercury exposure.