Exposure to high levels of certain phenolics can lead to acute and chronic health issues. For instance, phenol itself is corrosive and can cause skin and eye irritation, systemic toxicity, and even death in high concentrations. Chronic exposure to phenolic compounds, particularly in occupational settings, has been associated with effects on the liver, kidneys, and the central nervous system. Moreover, some phenolic compounds are known to be carcinogenic or mutagenic, leading to DNA damage and an increased risk of cancer.
