Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

Chronic toxicity is the result of what type of exposure?

1. Single high-dose exposure

2. Repeated exposure over a long period

3. Short-term high dosage

4. Infrequent exposure to high levels

The correct answer is: Repeated exposure over a long period

Chronic toxicity refers to the adverse effects that result from long-term exposure to a toxic substance, typically over an extended period, often at lower levels that might not cause immediate harm but accumulate to produce negative health impacts. This type of exposure can lead to various systemic effects, such as damage to organs or the development of diseases, which may take years to manifest. In contrast, single high-dose exposure, short-term high dosage, and infrequent exposure to high levels do not align with the definition of chronic toxicity. Single high-dose exposure often leads to acute toxicity, where symptoms appear soon after exposure. Short-term high dosage implies a brief but intense exposure that also leans more towards acute responses. Infrequent exposure to high levels might cause toxicity but does not ensure the prolonged and persistent effects characteristic of chronic toxicity. Thus, repeated exposure over a long period is the defining factor that makes an individual susceptible to chronic toxicity.