Which chemical exposure is often associated with long-term health risks?

Carcinogens are substances that are proven or strongly suspected to cause cancer in living tissue. The long-term health risks associated with exposure to carcinogens stem from their ability to induce changes in cellular DNA, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and the eventual development of tumors. Unlike corrosives, which primarily cause immediate damage to tissue, or irritants, which can lead to acute reactions but are not necessarily linked to chronic health issues, carcinogens have a long-term impact on health. Flammable materials, while posing serious hazards due to their potential to ignite, are not inherently linked to the development of chronic diseases like cancer. Therefore, the identification of carcinogens in the context of chemical exposure is crucial for understanding and mitigating long-term health risks.