Chronic health effects of human exposure to volatile organic compounds in indoor environments include which of the following?

• A. eyes and throat irritation
• B. damage to liver, kidneys, and the central nervous system
• C. asthma
• D. headache, dizziness, and nausea

Answer: (B)

Chronic exposure to volatile organic compounds leads to systemic toxicity because these chemicals are inhaled, enter the bloodstream, and are processed by the body over time. The liver metabolizes many VOCs, and this metabolism can produce toxic intermediates that injure the liver itself as well as the kidneys. Prolonged exposure can also affect the central nervous system, leading to neurotoxic effects. These lasting, whole-body impacts are the hallmark of chronic health effects from VOCs, distinguishing them from short-term irritant symptoms like eye or throat irritation, headaches, dizziness, or nausea, which reflect immediate exposure rather than lasting organ injury. While VOCs can contribute to asthma in susceptible individuals, the most representative chronic outcome described here is damage to the liver, kidneys, and CNS.