Texas Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

What is a common long-term effect of chronic exposure to pesticides?

1. Increased immunity

2. Joint stiffness

3. Respiratory issues

4. Skin rashes

The correct answer is: Respiratory issues

Chronic exposure to pesticides can lead to a variety of health issues due to the toxic nature of many of these chemicals. One of the common long-term effects is the development of respiratory issues. This can occur because many pesticides release vapors or particles that can be inhaled, which may cause chronic irritation to the respiratory tract over time. Prolonged or repeated exposure can lead to conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as well as increased sensitivity to allergens and respiratory infections. Respiratory health is particularly vulnerable because the lungs are directly exposed to airborne toxins. Because the synthetic substances in pesticides can be irritants or even carcinogenic, maintaining respiratory health is essential for people who regularly handle or are around pesticide use. The other options—such as increased immunity, joint stiffness, and skin rashes—while they may be associated with specific types of exposure to certain chemicals or acute effects, are not recognized as common long-term outcomes linked to the ongoing exposure to a wide range of pesticides.