How do chronic exposures differ from acute exposures in terms of fatalities?
Acute exposures typically involve a single, high-level exposure to a toxic substance that leads to immediate health effects and potential fatalities. In contrast, chronic exposures occur over a prolonged period at lower levels, which can result in cumulative health effects and fatalities over time. For example, chronic exposure to asbestos can lead to mesothelioma and other cancers, whereas acute cyanide poisoning can cause rapid death.