Which type of toxicity refers to the harmful effects from prolonged exposure to small amounts of a substance?

The correct choice addresses the concept of chronic toxicity, which refers to the harmful effects that arise from prolonged exposure to small amounts of a substance over an extended period. This type of toxicity often develops slowly, with symptoms that may not appear until after the individual has been exposed to the substance for a significant duration. Chronic toxicity can lead to long-term health issues, as the body accumulates the substance over time, and the effects can vary widely depending on the nature of the substance and the duration of exposure.

In contrast, acute toxicity is characterized by harmful effects that occur shortly after a single exposure or within a brief period. It typically involves a high dose leading to immediate symptoms, which distinguishes it from the long-term effects seen with chronic toxicity.

Subacute toxicity describes effects due to repeated exposures that are less chronic in nature but longer than acute; it generally relates to exposure over several days or weeks, which is shorter than what would be considered chronic.

Cumulative toxicity refers to the buildup of a substance in the body, which can occur due to repeated exposures. While there can be overlap between cumulative and chronic toxicity, cumulative toxicity specifically emphasizes the accumulation aspect.

Chronic toxicity encompasses the persistent and progressive nature of health impacts associated with ongoing exposure, making it the most