What is the fastest route for pesticides to affect the body?

Inhalation is recognized as the fastest route for pesticides to affect the body. When pesticides are inhaled, they bypass many of the body's natural barriers and are rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream through the lungs. This process occurs quickly because the lung tissue has a vast surface area and rich blood supply, facilitating swift transfer into the circulatory system.

In contrast, other methods such as ingestion and dermal exposure involve additional steps before the pesticides can affect the body. For instance, ingestion requires the pesticide to be processed through the digestive system, which can take longer and might involve certain metabolic processes that dilute or transform the active substances. Dermal exposure, while it can lead to significant absorption through the skin, often involves a slower process of penetration through layers of skin, which can vary depending on the pesticide's formulation and the condition of the skin.

Overall, the inhalation route is direct and immediate, making it the most rapid means for pesticides to enter the body and begin their effect.