What term describes exposure to a toxic substance that occurs over a long period of time?

The term that describes exposure to a toxic substance over a long period of time is chronic exposure. Chronic exposure refers to situations where an individual encounters a toxic agent consistently over an extended period, typically months or years. This kind of exposure often leads to cumulative health effects, as the body may not have sufficient time to eliminate the toxins before additional exposure occurs. Chronic exposure can result in long-term health issues, including various diseases and disorders, which may develop slowly and may not become apparent until after many years of exposure. Understanding this concept is essential for assessing risks associated with prolonged contact with hazardous substances, especially in occupational and environmental health contexts.

Other options describe different scenarios of exposure. Acute exposure, for instance, pertains to a short-term exposure that typically occurs over a brief period, often resulting in immediate health effects. Sub-chronic exposure refers to exposure that lasts for a significant period but is shorter than chronic exposure, usually ranging from a month to several months. Intermittent exposure involves periodic exposure to a toxic substance, which can also differ significantly from chronic exposure in terms of health impacts and risk assessments.