Texas Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

What is long-term repeated contact with pesticides called?

1. Acute Exposure

2. Chronic Exposure

3. Continuous Toxicity

4. Periodic Exposure

The correct answer is: Chronic Exposure

Long-term repeated contact with pesticides is referred to as chronic exposure. Chronic exposure occurs when an individual is exposed to a substance such as pesticides over an extended period, typically spanning months to years, leading to potential accumulative effects in the body. This kind of exposure is significant because it can result in harmful health effects that may not be immediately apparent, such as long-term illnesses or conditions that develop over time. In contrast, acute exposure pertains to a short-term exposure to pesticides, which can cause immediate adverse effects but generally does not lead to cumulative toxicity over time. Continuous toxicity implies prolonged exposure without interruption but does not specifically denote the repeated nature of the contact. Periodic exposure could refer to intermittent contact but does not encapsulate the idea of consistent exposure over a long duration as chronic exposure does. Thus, the concept of chronic exposure aptly describes the situation outlined in the question.