What is defined as toxicity from small, repeated exposures to a pesticide over time?

Chronic toxicity is defined as the harmful effects that result from small, repeated exposures to a pesticide over an extended period of time. This type of toxicity focuses on the long-term impact of a substance on an organism, which can include symptoms that develop gradually and may lead to serious health issues after prolonged exposure.

When considering the other terms, acute toxicity refers to the immediate and adverse effects that occur shortly after a single high exposure. Subchronic toxicity pertains to effects resulting from exposure over a slightly longer timeframe, usually up to a few months, but not extending to the longer periods characteristic of chronic toxicity. Combined toxicity relates to the effects seen when two or more substances are exposed together, which does not specifically address the accumulation of effects over time caused by repeated exposures to a single pesticide.

Understanding chronic toxicity is crucial for assessing risks associated with prolonged pesticide application or exposure, particularly in agricultural settings where workers and communities may be exposed to low levels of chemicals over time.