Detection and Characterization of Chemical Contaminants in Household Dust and Soil: A Systematic Review of Child Exposure Pathways and Health Risks.

This systematic review synthesizes existing literature on chemical contaminants measured in household dust and residential soil, with a focus on pathways relevant to children’s exposure. Given children’s heightened vulnerability due to hand-to-mouth behaviors and developing physiology, understanding dust- and soil-mediated exposures is critical for improving exposure assessment and informing public health risk evaluation. This study evaluates reported contaminant concentrations, exposure assessment metrics, and health risk indicators used in environmental health studies. The review aims to clarify the role of indoor and residential environments in children’s chemical exposure and support improved risk assessment and prevention strategies.