What does chronic toxicity refer to?

Chronic toxicity refers to adverse effects resulting from long-term exposure to a toxic substance. This concept is critical in assessing the risk associated with substances that may not cause immediate harm but lead to cumulative negative health effects over time. Chronic toxicity often involves the study of how repeated or continuous exposure can result in significant health problems, such as cancer, organ damage, or other systemic effects that develop gradually.

This definition emphasizes the importance of monitoring exposure levels and understanding how certain chemicals can impact health beyond just acute exposure scenarios. Understanding chronic toxicity is essential for regulating chemicals and protecting public health, as it helps determine safety thresholds and guidelines for long-term exposure to various substances.