16. Diseases: Causes and Prevention
Diseases impair normal body functions and can arise from numerous factors such as pathogens, genetic defects, and environmental conditions. Understanding the types and causes of diseases, particularly infectious and non-infectious diseases, is critical. Prevention strategies include maintaining hygiene, proper nutrition, vaccination, and managing exposure to vectors.
Enroll to start learning
You've not yet enrolled in this course. Please enroll for free to listen to audio lessons, classroom podcasts and take practice test.
Sections
Navigate through the learning materials and practice exercises.
What we have learnt
- Diseases can be caused by pathogens, genetic factors, and environmental influences.
- Infectious diseases are caused by pathogens while non-infectious diseases are not.
- Preventive measures such as personal hygiene, vaccinations, and awareness of environmental hazards help reduce the incidence of diseases.
Key Concepts
- -- Pathogens
- Microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa that cause infectious diseases.
- -- Genetic Factors
- Inherited genetic defects or mutations that can lead to diseases such as sickle cell anemia.
- -- Immunity
- The body's ability to resist infections, often enhanced through vaccinations.
- -- Infectious Diseases
- Diseases caused by infectious agents that can spread from person to person.
- -- Noninfectious Diseases
- Diseases that are not caused by pathogens and cannot be transmitted, such as cancer and diabetes.
Additional Learning Materials
Supplementary resources to enhance your learning experience.