In what ways can pesticides affect human health?

Pesticides can indeed cause both acute and chronic health effects, which justifies the selection of this answer. Acute health effects often occur shortly after exposure and can include symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and in severe cases, poisoning. These immediate reactions are typically associated with high levels of exposure, such as accidental spills or misuse.

Chronic health effects, on the other hand, can develop over a longer period and result from repeated low-level exposure. These may include long-term conditions such as cancer, reproductive issues, or endocrine disruption. The potential for such lasting health consequences underscores the importance of proper pesticide handling and application practices.

The other options do not accurately represent the broader concerns regarding pesticide impact on human health. For instance, while it is true that proper usage can minimize negative effects, the assertion that pesticides have only positive health effects overlooks the risks associated even with correct application. Additionally, the claim that pesticides exclusively cause respiratory issues is inaccurate, as they can affect various systems in the body, not just the respiratory system. Lastly, suggesting that effects are only psychological dismisses the tangible physical health risks associated with pesticide exposure.